Considered to be one of the most beautiful Mayan archaeological sites, Tulum is by no means the largest, but its location serves as a striking backdrop to its history.
The only Mayan archaeological site to be in use at the time of the Spanish conquest, Tulum, means "wall" in Maya. Also known as Zama, or city of dawn, this beautiful site sits on 15-meter high cliffs above the sea.
Primarily in use from 1200 to 1450, it was the major commercial port for Coba and other landlocked cities. Abandoned by the 16th century, it is now fully excavated and parts restored. About one and a half hours south of Cancun, the site is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm. The highway from Cancun has many ecotourist cenotes where you can swim and snorkel in the fresh waters, and explore caves.
Tulum was surrounded on three sides by a rock wall, which may have been for defense, and protected on the eastern side by the sea. The chief structure of Tulum, El Castillo (The Castle) sits on a high point of the site, facing the ocean. Reefs just off the coast make entry into Tulum difficult, and it’s theorized that one of the purposes of El Castillo was to act as a lighthouse and guidance system for boats.
One of the most striking buildings, the Templo del Dios Descendente, features the diving, or descending god. His image appears all over the site, but his true name and meaning are not known. Linked to rain, lightning, and water, he may be a bee god, as honey was one of the major trade products of the Mayans in this region.
Tulum has easily-accesible, beautiful beaches, so you can have a refreshing swim after exploring the site.
Continuing south of the highway from the Tulum site, turn left at the next Tulum sign. This will take you to the old coastal road which leads south to Punta Allen, through the Sian Ka’an Biosphere.
Many ecologocial resorts, from fancy to rustic, dot the highway. For a true Mayan advewnture, stay in one of the rustic cabanas, which feature palapa roofs, private bathrooms, and candle-lit evenings. The town of Tulum is beginning to offer more services – restaurants, internet access, phone service, etc.
The Sian Ka’aan (where the sky is born) Biosphere, about half an hour south of Tulum, was established as a nature reserve in 1986. Featuring tropical forests, wetlands and the sea, it has an amazing biodiversity. Over 300 species of butterflies and 345 species of birds, endangered mammals such as jaguars, pumas, and tapirs, and nesting sea turtles have all been observed. Bonefishing trips may be booked with local guides, and an excellent boat and snorkel trip is available taking you through the ancient Mayan canals used for transporting goods into the interior.
Whether your main reason for visiting is the Mayan archaeology, the cenotes and underwater caves, bonefishing, or bird-watching, there’s plenty to do and see in the Tulum area!
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