Tizimín’s Three Kings Feast: Yucatán’s Cultural Heritage Push

In a recent meeting of the Yucatán Congress, representative Wilmer Manuel Monforte proposed an initiative to declare the Tizimín Annual Fair's Three Holy Kings festivities as the State's Intangible Cultural Heritage. This move aims to safeguard one of the region's most iconic and traditional celebrations.

Monforte Marfil, in his address, highlighted that Tizimín's traditional festivities have deep historical roots. They serve as a conduit for passing down knowledge, values, beliefs, and customs through generations, thereby shaping a collective identity. The Three Holy Kings celebration, a key part of Catholic worship, is believed to be over 400 years old. However, the traditions and elements of the Mayan people, which are integral to these celebrations, are even older.

Erik Ojeda, the Director of the Yucatán Legislative Research Institute, noted that Tizimín has been a pilgrimage center since the pre-Hispanic era, with a focus on the worship of Mayan deities associated with natural elements like water, wind, and earth. The Franciscans, upon their arrival, established the Three Holy Kings as the local patrons. The festivities are also tied to agricultural cycles, particularly the corn harvest, symbolizing the cultural blend and serving as a marker of traditions.

Tizimín's cultural richness has made it a popular destination, attracting thousands of pilgrims and visitors from across the state, the southeastern part of the country, and other states in the Republic. It also draws international visitors, underscoring the celebration's significance.

Monforte Marfil emphasized that while the festival does contribute to tourism and the local economy, its primary purpose is to showcase the city's culture and traditions. He stressed the need to promote and preserve this event, which puts Tizimín on the global map.