Attraction Guide: Hacienda Sotuta de Peon, Merida, Mexico

Hacienda Sotuta de Peon Guide

Hacienda Sotuta de Peon: A Living History of the Henequen Era Guide

Hacienda Sotuta de Peon offers a unique and immersive journey into the heart of Yucatan's henequen industry. This beautifully restored hacienda provides a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the plantation owners and workers who shaped the region's history. More than just a museum, Sotuta de Peon is a living history experience, allowing you to witness the entire henequen production process from plant to finished product. Hacienda Sotuta de Peon was a working henequen plantation from the late 19th century until the mid-20th century. During this period, henequen, also known as "green gold," was the backbone of the Yucatecan economy. The hacienda was a self-sufficient community, with its own church, school, and housing for the workers. After years of neglect, the hacienda was meticulously restored to its former glory, preserving its original machinery and architecture. Visitors to Hacienda Sotuta de Peon can take a guided tour that includes a ride on a mule-drawn cart through the henequen fields, a demonstration of the traditional henequen harvesting and processing techniques, and a visit to the casa principal (main house), which has been furnished to reflect the lifestyle of the plantation owners. You can also swim in a cenote located on the property. The hacienda's restaurant serves traditional Yucatecan cuisine, offering dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. The experience provides a tangible connection to the past and a deeper understanding of the cultural and economic significance of the henequen industry in Yucatan.