Merida the "White City" is the capital of Yucatan, Mexico. Founded on the site of a ruined Mayan city, Merida has many fine examples of Spanish colonial architecture, such as a 16th-century cathedral which has a statue of Jesus 22 feet high. Chichen Itza [about 74 miles east of Merida] is by far the most famous, most frequently, and best restored of all of the Mayan archaeological sites in the Yucatan Peninsula. National parks and the wild flamingo populations of nearby Celestun are popular day trips as well. Ecotourism sites are scattered about the peninsula. Coastal estuaries, mangroves, and bays support waterfowl and marine life. Underground caves and cenotes (sink-holes) can be explored as well. Merida is great for vacationers yearning for a real Mexican experience with Mayan ruins, crumbling haciendas, and breathtaking ecological adventure.