One of my unexpectedly favorite things about the Maya Museum in Merida was its architecture.

The building was designed by 4A Arquitectos. Visually, it evokes both ancient Mayan pyramids and also a tree (or Ceiba) – according to an article I read, the architects were referencing the Mayan creation tale.

I loved the beautiful ways they made it accessible – one of the stairways leading up to the first floor (primary level) had a switch-back ramp built into it, and the central core in the building was composed of elevators surrounded by a spiral staircase.

The building had open space throughout – terraces, walkways, and the central area were all outdoors.