I wrote recently about Playa del Carmen’s original zocalo or main square. Today I visited our more modern zocalo located in the center of the city bordered by Calles 8 & 10 and Avenues 15 & 20.

The official name of our zocalo is Plaza 28 de Julio (July 28th Plaza) named after the inauguration date of the municipality of Solidaridad, which includes Playa del Carmen. As far as I can tell, the zocalo was created in honor of the 10 year anniversary of the creation of Solidaridad. We recently celebrated our 15th anniversary, so this zocalo has been around for about 5 years.

The zocalo is a place to congregate. Many events, such as Carnaval concerts, Mexican Independence festivities and governmental ceremonies are held here. Smaller concerts are often held in this ampitheatre.

It is also a place to meet with a friend or take a break.

Most Mexican zocalos are flanked by the Palacio Municipal (City Hall), and Playa’s is no exception. But the modern city hall of our young city pales in comparison to the beautiful colonial structures in many older Mexican cities.

On other sides of the plaza, you’ll find a couple of hotels and newly constructed condos.

Sahara Hotel

Hotel Jabines

New Condos

These stone markers denote the city names of this area.

The sign on this tree says “I am an informed guardian. I care for and respect nature.”

A bust of Mexican politician, Andres Quintana Roo, for whom our state is named.

On these stone tablets in the fountain are written the official hymn of the state of Quintana Roo. The hymn tells the history of the Roo.

The chorus translates as follows.

Jungle, sea, history and youth,
free and just town under the sun,
its tenacity a virtue:
¡This is Quintana Roo!

Although the zocalo is just a little off the typical tourist beaten path, it’s worth a stroll to check it out. Bring your morning coffee or perhaps lunch, park yourself on a bench, and observe daily life in Playa del Carmen.