Colonialism and Oro Verde

In the mid-1500's Yucatan saw the beginning of some dramatic changes. Conquistadors came to knock down and re-build their own mansions and churches from the rubble of Mayan stones. Fusion of cultures and genetics began to take place at a rapid rate and the predominant form of agriculture changed from homesteading to plantations.

Fiber production put Yucatan on the world map and saw ports like Sisal explode with the growth of the export market. So what is this plant known as "green gold" that helped the rich get richer and the poor get poorer? What is it about this spiky cousin to agave that spurred the rise of the mestizo and a caste war? How can the simple production of rope and twine cause such large social and cultural changes?

Before we can start to answer these kinds of questions, we took a hands-on look back in time to see what the plantations and factories looked like.

taking a look at the machines that crush the spiky leaves to extract the strong fiber

The workers need to use heavy gloves to keep their hands safe from the spines.

we set out bundles of the soaking fiber to dry in the hot sun

We saw how the fiber was bundled to be sent off to artists or to factories that make rope and twine

taking a break in the shade

Processing a small batch of henequen

Today this fiber is used mostly in crafts

We tried our hand!

The group!

During this trip we also visited a colonial city that is known for it's downtown that is painted bright yellow. Perhaps the most notable characteristic of this city is the large catholic convent sitting on top of the base of a Mayan pyramid. And from the top of another ruin you get spectacular views!

One side of the convent

Exploring the downtown area

Chatting with the locals

About to climb the piramid

We made it to the top!

Checking out the view

Small Town Days: Our time in Yaxunah

Before we began our time in the rural community of Yaxunah, we passed through the small city of Acanceh, where we were able to tour through the market and visit the prehispanic structures that make up the ancient Mayan settlement that today is fused with the architecture and modernity of the town. These ancient structures tell their story through the exposed stones and glimpses of preserved stucco. The pyramid of the masks holds eight stuccoed masks, two on each side of the structure, each one with characteristics associated with the sun god Kinich Ahau. A few blocks away, past the large catholic church and down a side street, surrounded by family homes, the Palace of Stuccos has a frisee that adorns the north face of the building with zoomorphic beings. Just like in the city, the best part of the program is when the students get to meet their new host families. The family is the main pillar of support for the student’s immersion into any context, but it is especially important in smal

The Grand Adventure: Orientation Trip

Our orientation trip began in the southern part of the state of Yucatan, in the community of San Mateo, where we were able to explore the natural resources of the area and learn about a few of the most important trees in the Mayan culture. We also admired historic buildings in the middle of the jungle that are evidence of military bases that were established along the ancient roads of Yucatan after the Caste War. One of the most fascinating experiences we had was entering into what the ancient Mayans knew as the inframundo , or the underworld. We rappelled down into the cenote of San Mateo, breaking the silence within and sending hundreds of bats circling around the high vaulted ceiling of this massive natural well. It is a unique experience that very few people are lucky enough to see. The next part of our trip took place in the state of Quintana Roo, where we were awed by the beauty and culture of the region. We enjoyed our stay at the lakeside cabañas Síijil Noh Há. The food was g

Merida: Our Days in the City

The first part of the student’s time in Merida, meeting and integrating into their host families, is probably the most important step in beginning an immersion program. In our case, here in Merida, host families are fundamental for the students to adapt to their new urban context. Another important aspect of their time in Merida are their Spanish classes, since the language will allow them to interact and immerse themselves more completely in the culture. During these language classes, the students not only learn grammar and structure, but they are also able to develop their own linguistic abilities by sharing, discussing and practicing the everyday vocabulary and expressions that they hear outside of the classroom. Mayan culture classes are another key part of the program, they help the students understand diverse aspects of the culture, how a Yucatecan family lives, the differences between interacting in an urban or a rural setting, and provide the hidden historical context for wha

Adventures in Yucatan, Mexico

Search This Blog