Cacalchén facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Cacalchén
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Locality
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Principal Church of Cacalchén, Yucatán
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 Cacalchén
Location in Yucatán (state)
Cacalchén
Location in Mexico
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| Country |  Mexico |
| State |  Yucatán |
| Elevation | 10 m (30 ft) |
| Population
(2010)
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| • Total | 6,787 |
| Time zone | UTC-6 (Central Standard Time) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (Central Daylight Time) |
| INEGI Code | 009 |
| Major Airport | Merida (Manuel Crescencio Rejón) International Airport |
| IATA Code | MID |
| ICAO Code | MMMD |
Cacalchén is a town in the Mexican state of Yucatán. Its name comes from the Yucatec Maya language. It means "place of the well with two mouths." Cacalchén is also the main town of the area called Cacalchén Municipality.
Contents
A Look Back in Time: Cacalchén's History
Early Days and Spanish Arrival
Before the Spanish arrived, there are no records of Maya settlements here. After the Spanish took over Yucatán, the land became part of a system called encomienda. This system gave Spanish settlers control over land and the people living on it. Maria Sanchez Sosa was one of the first known people to have an encomienda here.
Independence and Conflict
Yucatán became independent from the Spanish Crown in 1821. In 1825, Cacalchén was placed in the coastal region. Its main office was in Izamal.
In May 1848, during the Caste War of Yucatán, Cacalchén became a safe place. Colonel José del Carmen Bello found refuge here. This happened after Maya rebels defeated government troops and took Izamal. In December of the same year, Maya fighters led by Jacinto Pat attacked the town. They looted it and killed the white settlers.
Becoming a Municipal Seat
In 1900, Cacalchén became the main town for the municipality that shares its name. This means it became the center for local government and services.
Understanding Cacalchén's Population
How Many People Live Here?
Demographics is the study of populations. It helps us understand how many people live in a place. It also shows how the population changes over time. The chart below shows how Cacalchén's population has grown.
Fun Local Events
Annual Town Festivals
Every year, from June 20 to June 29, Cacalchén holds a special celebration. This festival honors the town's patron saints, St. Peter and St. Paul. It is a time for the community to come together.
Places to Visit
Historical Church of St. Paul
One important place to visit is the Church of St. Paul. This church was built a very long time ago, in the sixteenth century. It is a beautiful example of old architecture.
See also
In Spanish: Cacalchén para niños
