Attraction Guide: Hacienda Sotuta de Peon, Merida, Yucatan, Mexico

Hacienda Sotuta de Peon Guide

Step Back in Time: A Journey Through Yucatán's Sisal History Guide

Hacienda Sotuta de Peon offers a fascinating glimpse into the Yucatán's rich history and the once-booming sisal industry. This living museum allows you to experience firsthand the process of henequen production, from the plant in the fields to the finished product. It's a unique opportunity to understand the economic and social impact of sisal on the region and the lives of the people who worked on these grand estates. Originally established in the 19th century, Hacienda Sotuta de Peon was a major producer of henequen, a type of agave fiber used to make rope and twine. The hacienda system dominated the Yucatán Peninsula for centuries, creating vast wealth for a small elite while relying on the labor of indigenous Mayans. The hacienda's architecture, machinery, and even the stories of its former inhabitants offer a powerful reminder of this complex and often difficult past. Today, the hacienda has been carefully restored to showcase the traditional methods of sisal production. Visitors can enjoy a guided tour that includes a ride on a mule-drawn "truck" through the henequen fields, a demonstration of the sisal extraction process using antique machinery, and a visit to the Casa Maya, a traditional Mayan dwelling. You can also swim in a cenote (sinkhole) located on the property, a refreshing and culturally significant experience. The hacienda also features a restaurant serving traditional Yucatecan cuisine, offering a taste of the region's unique flavors. Don't miss the opportunity to try dishes like cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) or sopa de lima (lime soup).