After a three-year renovation process, the historic Ateneo Peninsular in Mérida, Yucatán has reopened its doors to the public. The building, managed by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), has been restored physically, administratively, and legally.
A Hub for Culture and Education
The Ateneo will house a meeting room, a one-stop shop for procedures related to the Mérida Historic Monuments Zone, a bookstore-shop shared with the National Fund for the Promotion of Handicrafts, a cafeteria, and a restaurant. The Mayan Train Museum will also be located within the building, showcasing archaeological finds from the megaproject.
Inclusive Experiences
The Maya Train Museum has been designed to promote inclusion and accessibility, featuring tactile reproductions, Braille descriptions, audiovisuals, and normal visuals. This ensures an experience that integrates all audiences.
Archaeological Significance
The Ateneo will also house archaeological laboratories where ceramic samples obtained from the different sections of the tracks are being studied and restored. The facility will preserve these pieces, which hold special significance for local communities.
A Cultural Hub for the Future
In later stages, work will be done on creating a Museum of the History of the People of Yucatán within the Ateneo. This will further solidify its position as a cultural hub in Mérida. The Peninsular Ateneo will also house the INAH Yucatán Center’s Photo Library and have spaces for temporary exhibitions, conventions, conferences, and various cultural activities.
Source: INAH
