Ticul

Ticul is a small town in the south of Yucatán, some 100 kilometers from the state capital at Mérida. Ticul is well known as a stop on the Puuc Route that includes some 5-7 sites from Labná to Uxmal south and west of town. It's a popular place to stay with all the modern comforts when visiting these rugged and ancient sites.  

Ticul has been an city since well before the Spanish. Today, it is a town of Yucatec-Maya speakers, and it's possibly best known as a leather-working town. Shoes are the standby, but the industry also churns out sandals, boots, saddles and other leather goods. For those walking the pyramids, or just walking too much, a trip to the municipal market is a must. It's just east of the town center on Calle 23.

In and around the market you can also witness the area's famous pottery output. Local artisans produce figurative work, tableware, and decorative works often with ancient motifs and contemporary flair. The rest of the market is also an excellent place to eat. 

The rest of the historic center is perfect for walking too and from the market. The church of San Antonio de Padua offers a good center to the entire area, but travelers will want to check out the colorful facades of the surrounding streets. Still in town, visitors will also take to the Ecomuseo Cacao and the Maya Art Museum. The Museo Cosas de Yucatán: Historia y Artesanías really fills out the local artisan scene, and gives you lots of perspective on what's on offer.  

Service providers will help you to get along to the other sites on the route. Uxmal, Kabah, and Labná are all within about an hour. But most visitors will arrive to Ticul from Merida. At about 90 minutes to the north, there are loads of buses and combi services between the two towns. The Maxcanú station on the Tren Maya line is a little closer, at just about one hour to the northwest of town. It's remarkable and inviting country, and staying a good couple of days is a rewarding experience.