Calkiní facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Calkiní
|
|
|---|---|
|
City and municipal seat
|
|
 Calkiní
Location in Mexico
|
|
| Country |  Mexico |
| State | Campeche |
| Municipality | Calkiní |
| Elevation | 14 m (46 ft) |
| Population
(2010)
|
|
| • Total | 14,934 |
| Time zone | UTC−6 (Central (US Central)) |
| • Summer (DST) | UTC−5 (Central) |
| City status | 30 November 1918 |
| Website | www.calkini.gob.mx |
Calkiní is a city located in the Mexican state of Campeche. Its name comes from the Yucatec Maya language and means "throat of the sun."
This city is found at the northern tip of Campeche state. It sits on the central western coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. Calkiní is also the main town, or municipal seat, for the larger area called the Calkiní Municipality. In 2010, about 14,934 people lived in the city of Calkiní.
Contents
History of Calkiní
The San Luis Obispo Church
The famous San Luis Obispo Church in Calkiní was started in 1549. A Franciscan friar named Fray Diego de Villalpando founded it as a mission. A mission was a place where religious teachers lived and worked to spread their beliefs.
The church was built on top of an important ancient Mayan ceremonial structure. This was a smart move because it meant building materials were easy to find. It also helped new people feel comfortable coming to this sacred spot.
Calkiní's Important Location
Calkiní had a very special location. It was exactly halfway between two big cities: Campeche and Merida. This made it a key spot for the Franciscans. By 1588, Calkiní became the main mission for the Franciscans in the whole region.
Because of its location, Calkiní grew to be the second-largest town in the entire Yucatan province. Back then, the Yucatan province included all three states that are on the Yucatan peninsula today.
Calkiní Today
Today, Calkiní is a beautiful and welcoming town. You can see many buildings with bright, colorful fronts. The main town square, or plaza, is always well-kept and pretty.
Calkiní is a popular place for visitors to stop. Many people traveling between Merida and Campeche enjoy exploring the town. It's also a good starting point to visit nearby places like Isla Arena.
See also
- In Spanish: Calkiní para niños
