Have you ever wondered about the captivating story behind Merida’s most iconic landmark, the House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos)? This 16th-century colonial masterpiece is famous for its beautiful blue-and-white tiles. It has stood through the passing centuries, witnessing Merida’s rich history. Wondering about the building’s secrets and role in Merida’s culture, I step inside its detailed entrance.
Key Takeaways
- The House of Tiles is a 16th-century colonial landmark in Merida, Mexico, known for its iconic blue-and-white tiled facade.
- The building has a rich history, having passed through the hands of prominent families and serving as a noble residence, a Jockey Club, and a flagship restaurant.
- The House of Tiles showcases the splendid Churrigueresque Spanish Baroque style, with intricate stone carvings, murals, and a stunning glass-roofed atrium.
- The Sanborn brothers acquired the building in the early 20th century and transformed it into a flagship restaurant, helping to revive its legacy.
- Today, the House of Tiles remains a must-see attraction in Merida, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich colonial heritage and architectural splendor.
The House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos) Merida
Historic Building in Merida’s Centro Historico
The House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos) shines in Merida’s Centro Historico (Historic Center). It stands tall from the 16th century. This beautiful place shows what colonial times in Merida were like.
16th Century Colonial Architecture
In the late 1500s, the House of Tiles was a small palace. It showed off the detailed work and style of 16th century colonial Mexico. Through many families, it has grown into a grand building.
Iconic Blue and White Tiled Facade
What catches your eye most is the blue-and-white tiled facade. It covers the whole building. Now, it’s a must-see spot in Merida. People from all over come to admire this colonial Mexico landmark.
A Glimpse into Colonial Mexico’s Past
The House of Tiles, or Casa de los Azulejos, in Merida started in the late 1500s. Don Damian Martinez built it as a small palace. It was then taken over by famous families like the Counts of the Valley of Orizaba. They made it bigger and gave it new decorations. This place has seen a lot of history, from important events to even a murder. Today, it stands as a big part of Mexico’s colonial time.
Originally a Small Palace Built in the 1500s
The House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos) started as a little palace in the late 16th century. Don Damian Martinez built the first part. This was the beginning of what we now know as one of Merida’s special landmarks.
Passed Through Prominent Families Over Generations
From the 1500s to today, the House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos) has changed owners. Many important families in Merida have lived there. The Counts of the Valley of Orizaba made it larger and more beautiful. Each group left a part of their story in this special place.
Architectural Splendor and Artistic Treasures
The House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos) in Merida shines as a masterpiece. It presents the beautiful Churrigueresque Spanish Baroque style of colonial Mexico. The outside is rich with detailed stone work and carvings, showing off its special period.
Stunning Courtyard with Murals and Fountains
Inside, the House of Tiles has a breathtaking courtyard. This area under a glass roof is filled with murals by the famous Mexican artist Jose Clemente Orozco. And it has a peaceful fountain, enhancing the feeling of colonial Mexico‘s grandure.
Masterpieces by Renowned Mexican Artist Jose Clemente Orozco
Orozco’s murals make the House of Tiles even more special. Orozco is a top artist in Mexico, praised worldwide. His work in places like the House of Tiles shows Mexico’s strong cultural past.
From Noble Residence to Iconic Restaurant
The House of Tiles’ story changed in the 1900s when the Sanborn brothers, two smart Americans, got it. They knew this old place had a lot to offer. They fixed it up and turned it into the main restaurant and soda spot for their growing business.
Transformed by Sanborn Brothers in Early 20th Century
The Sanborns, who began working in Mexico City in 1903, thought the House of Tiles was great for their plans. They carefully fixed it, keeping its beautiful old look and the amazing blue-and-white tiles. When they reopened it in 1920, it became a famous place in Merida, Mexico.
Thanks to the Sanborn brothers, the House of Tiles got a new life as a restaurant. Today, this old place not only serves food but also tells a story of hard work and success. It shows how the Sanborns made their mark in Mexico’s past.
Exploring the House of Tiles Today
Today, visitors to the House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos) Merida can dive into its luxurious setting. They can dine in the grand courtyard or wander through rooms filled with history. This Merida landmark welcomes guests with a historic vibe and shows off its rich past with every detail.
Dining in Opulent Surroundings
The House of Tiles restaurant lets people enjoy amazing food in an exceptional place. The amazing courtyard, with high ceilings and beautiful fountains, offers a unique dining adventure. It doesn’t matter if you’re eating Mexican classics or new dishes, the grand surroundings make it special.
Admiring the Architectural Details
Explorers of the House of Tiles find themselves amazed by its details. Golden mirrors and Chinese-style railings show off its history. This place is packed with craftsmanship and care from its colonial past.
Soaking in the Historic Ambiance
The House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos) Merida feels old and full of life, taking visitors to colonial times. The moment you enter, its historic ambiance surrounds you, letting you feel its lasting impact.
A Merida Must-See Attraction
The House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos) is a top spot in Merida. It’s a stunning building from the 16th-century. The blue-and-white tiles show off the city’s rich past and beautiful architecture.
You can eat in its fancy halls, check out the detailed art, or just feel the history. It’s a visit you won’t forget.
This building is popular with 12.4K followers online. It’s been in top families’ hands, like the Orizabas. It dates back to 16th century.
In 1596, Don Diego de Peredo took over. This started the place’s journey to become the beauty it is now.
The House of Tiles has seen big moments. There was a major earthquake in 1731. They say the statue of Christ on the building kept the quake from being worse.
In 1891, the Iturbe family passed the place to the Mexico City Jockey Club. They made it exclusive. Then, in 1919, the Sanborn brothers bought it. They turned it into a top restaurant in 1920.
Today, the House of Tiles is a memory of Merida’s past. It’s also a symbol of the Sanborn brothers’ success. They have many restaurants across Mexico. This one is special, showing off colonial vibes and great food.
Spend some time at the House of Tiles. You can wander the three-story courtyard. Admire the Spanish-style art. Or have a fancy meal.
It’s a must for anyone who loves history and cool buildings. Especially in Merida, Mexico.
Preserving a Piece of Mexican Heritage
The House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos) in Merida is a bright window to Mexico’s past. It is a key example of colonial architecture. Efforts are underway to keep this colonial Mexico landmark alive for future ones.
Ongoing Restoration and Maintenance Efforts
A team of experts works hard on the House of Tiles. They aim to keep its charm and history alive. Their focus is on the detailed stone carvings and the famous blue-and-white tiles. These actions are essential to protect the building’s true historical value.
Protecting a Treasured Colonial Landmark
Thanks to this hard work, people can still enjoy the beauty of the House of Tiles. As a The House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos) Merida attraction, visitors will continue to be amazed. This effort is key to cherishing the gem’s legacy.
Conclusion
The House of Tiles (Casa de los Azulejos) in Merida is a standout feature of colonial Mexican design. It’s top on the list of places to see for anyone visiting Merida. The blue-and-white tile front, deep history, and lavish interior rooms show off Merida’s background. They also highlight the beauty of Mexican architecture in the 1500s.
The House of Tiles stays special thanks to people working to keep it shining. Its impact makes sure memory of the House of Tiles lives on. It’s a proud symbol of Merida’s rich history and Mexico’s colonial-era buildings.
Exploring the building’s fine details, eating in the grand courtyard, or just feeling the age in the air, this spot is memorable. A trip to the House of Tiles in Merida really takes you back. It also celebrates the city’s incredible architecture and cultural history.