In the 1960's, the Mexican Government saw the potential of this particular area of the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico (the region of Quintana Roo). Government officials decided to transform the "7-shaped" island into the picturesque resort of Cancun, which boasts miles and miles of sandy white beaches. The territory of Quintana Roo then officially became a state after Cancun was declared a resort in 1974 and open to tourists. This stunning tropical paradise attracts holidaymakers from all over the world.

Cancun has a rich history, steeped in the culture of the ancient Mayan Indians. They were the undisputed rulers of their age, building their stately cities across the Yucatan Peninsula, Guatemala, and Central America. Masters of astronomy and very highly sophisticated mathematicians and engineers, the Mayans built a complex and integrated system of roads spanning their far-flung empire. Worshipping a vast pantheon of gods, the theology of which included human sacrifice, the pre-Columbian Mayans flourished for centuries, but then, for some unexplained reason, they fled their mysterious dazzling cities, they fled their temples and playing fields, their streets and stadiums. Vines and creeping undergrowth of the jungle smothered the monuments and buildings of what had once been a proud and highly accomplished race....until the archeologist came on the scene.

 

History of the Mayan Ruins of Tulum

The site of Tulum, one hundred and thirty kilometers south of Cancun, is one of the most picturesque of Mayan ruins. The coast of Quintana Roo has many enchanting beaches, coves and inlets, all with a backdrop of lush tropical vegetation. It is here that Tulum stands on a hill overlooking the azure blue waters of the Caribbean. The name "Tulum" comes from the Yucatec word for "wall", as Tulum originally did have a wall surrounding its inner city and was one of the very few Mayan cities with such a feature. The city's original name meant "place of the dawn", which seems logical as Tulum is blessed with a dramatic outlook to the east and sunrises are said to be memorable.

The site of Tulum is thought to have been occupied from the Early Classic Period of Mayan history (250 to 600 A.D.), but it did not develop into an important city until the late Post Classic Period (1200 - 1530 A.D.)

Religion was of paramount importance to the Mayans as demonstrated by the numerous altars, temples, and shrines on this site. Remains of mural paintings (still visible after many centuries) show military and religious subjects.

The most striking building at the site of Tulum is the castle or "El Castillo." We were very impressed with our fascinating tour here; one could still sense the grandeur and beauty of the various structures in spite of decay wrought by the ravages of time. One is able to fathom the colourful heritage of the Mayan race and discern a most unique and interesting culture which existed so many centuries ago before the arrival of European explorers to this region of the world. Enhancing the visually pleasing experience of Tulum is the magnificent view over the sparkling blue waters of the Caribbean.