In the heart of Cancun’s Hotel zone, on the first stage of the iconic Kukulcan Avenue, stands a monument to the luxury that once existed, but which today is nothing more than a shadow of its former and ephemeral splendor: the Playboy casino. Since its inauguration, the place has not gone unnoticed and, of course, has not been free of controversy.
The local Catholic community strongly opposed its opening, saying the casino, located directly opposite the Church of the Risen Christ, was a symbol of moral and social incongruity.
The casino’s opening in December 2010, amid a media hype, was attended by the famous actress Carmen Electra, who was the special guest of the evening.
The lights, the glamour and the festive atmosphere marked a night that many still remember for its contrast with the solemnity of the temple across the street.
From the start, the project sparked mixed feelings: for some, it was an opportunity for entertainment and tourism, while for others it represented an ethical challenge and a threat to the tranquility of the place.
The Cancún-Chetumal prelature filed an injunction against its operation, for violating articles 28 and 38 of the regulations of the Federal Law of Games and Lotteries, as well as the regulations of Municipal Shows and Entertainment, the Federal and State Health Laws, and the Civil Protection safety regulations.
Today, the abandoned Playboy Casino structure and its iconic bunny silhouette still stand. The worn facade and boarded-up doors of the former casino tell tales of glamour and debate, while curious tourists and local residents alike wonder what the future holds for this ghost on Kukulcan Avenue.
As reported REPOTUR.mxThe Playboy casino, located at kilometer 3.5 of the Hotel zone of Cancun, was closed for the second time in April 2014 following an order from the Government, with administrative irregularities as justification, according to local media (Playboy casino closed in Cancun).
