Isla Mujeres, Quintana Roo — The island of Isla Mujeres marked its 509th anniversary with the unveiling of the renovated Hacienda Mundaca, a historic property once owned by pirate Fermín Mundaca, following a 4 million peso restoration project.
Mayor Atenea Gómez Ricalde, accompanied by city chronicler Fidel Villanueva, announced the site’s reopening during anniversary celebrations. She revealed that authorities are in talks with the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) to obtain permits for further restoration of structures under the institute’s care.
“We’re processing INAH permits for refurbishment to potentially create a museum or follow their guidance,” Gómez Ricalde said. “The important thing is that the Hacienda is now open.”
The mayor emphasized that restoring public spaces like Hacienda Mundaca was a key campaign promise to island residents, aimed at preserving local identity. The hacienda sits atop Mayan cultural remnants discovered centuries ago.
Gómez Ricalde described the renovation as the first phase of a comprehensive project for the previously abandoned site. Beyond historical elements, she noted the natural significance of the location as a birdwatching destination for unique species, leading to the construction of an observation tower in this initial stage.
Villanueva explained that the original hacienda decree covered 19.5 hectares, but through government donation agreements, it now spans 17 hectares — representing what he called the island’s last “green lung” of oxygen, visible from aerial views.
Public Works Director William Conrado Alarcón detailed that the renovation included general cleaning, building refurbishments, road improvements, restroom facilities, and an outdoor theater, alongside the new observation tower.
Anniversary events concluded at the hacienda’s fully remodeled outdoor theater, now equipped for cultural presentations.
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