Mérida was founded in 1542 by Francisco de Montejo built the site on the ancient Maya City. Mayans established one of their best cities, Chichén Itzá, in which is now Yucatán. Because it was relatively isolated from the rest of Mexico until recently, the state developed its own unique culture.
During the 12th century, the Mayan city-state of Mayapán waged war against and beat the citizens of Chichén Itzá. When Mexico gained its independence from Spain in February 1821, Yucatán became part of the Independent Mexican Empire but remained a control province until 1824 when it was divided into three states: Campeche, Quintana Roo and Yucatán.
During the 12th century, the Mayan city-state of Mayapán waged war against and beat the citizens of Chichén Itzá. When Mexico gained its independence from Spain in February 1821, Yucatán became part of the Independent Mexican Empire but remained a control province until 1824 when it was divided into three states: Campeche, Quintana Roo and Yucatán.