The house of Francisco de Montejo, the leading civil authority in Merida (Yucatan), was built by the Spanish Crown. Its original 1549 facade remains and, especially in its upper section, exemplifies the Plateresque style. On each side of the lower section freestanding Columns flanked by pilasters frame the door. A protruding bracketed cornice creates a clear and strong division. In the upper section diminutive corner figures, virtual finials, are dressed in pelts; their significance is something of a mystery. Armored warriors, stepping on Indian heads, guard the Montejo coat of arms. Busts in the upper frieze may represent Francisco, and his wife and son. The interior has been modified for Current use by Banamex (a large financial institution) but the front balcony gives evidence that the original structure had two floors. The imposing front, facing the plaza, strongly resembles a church facade. Unquestionably the sculptor was a Spaniard. Apart from the conquistadors, among the first of the Spanish settlers to acquire a degree of wealth were shop owners. In Veracruz there is a very early example of a store (tienda) fronted by an arcaded wall. This arcade allows the apartment above to have additional depth and privacy. Balconied windows facing the street and doors facing an inner court give good cross ventilation.
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