The mesmerizing Mexico conjures up visions of intriguing ancient ruins, fascinating colonial villages, limitless vivid blue beaches, and vibrant cities. The country's two lengthy coasts entice visitors with endless options for sunbathing and enjoying their time. They also provide tons of activities and attractions. Hidden gems are numerous in this marvelous country. Tulum is a magical place and one of the must-visit cities in Mexico. The reason it has grown to be such a unique travel destination on the wonderful Yucatán Peninsula is because of its powerful draw on visitors as well as the history of the neighboring Tulum Mayan Ruins. This beautiful Mexican town offers not only historical landmarks but also stunning beaches, delicious restaurants, and fancy hotels. Additionally, it is packed with exciting things to do. The appeal of Tulum as a tourist destination has skyrocketed in recent years! Word spread about how amazing this little village is in reality. A place like this deserves to be well enjoyed. Here are two incredible beachside Mayan ruins any tourists shall visit.
Overview Of The Exceptional El Castillo
This grandiose edifice, which lies beside the sea, is one of the prominent ones at the Tulum archeological site. El Castillo, which means The Castle, was constructed by the ancient Mayas on a cliff 40 feet (12 meters) above sea level, making it a strategic surveillance point for thwarting potential enemy attacks and directing Maya seafarers who might otherwise crash into the coral reef near Tulum's coast, which is a part of the Mesoamerican reef system. This one is regarded as the second-largest reef system in the world after Australia's Great Barrier Reef.
Discover The Jaw-Dropping Beauty Of El Castillo
Although it is forbidden to climb the castle, tourists may ascend the stone stairway on the side to examine it and see the decorations on the three entryways, which are supported by three wonderful columns in the form of snakes. Before leaving, tourists shall make sure to tour the Templo de Los Frescos. The remains of a mural depicting female and male deities, interwoven snakes, and offerings of fruit, flowers, and maize may be seen in a rear chamber on the first level. Additionally, large plaster masks that are presumably depictions of the magnificent Mayan creator god Itzmaná may be seen in the frieze's corners.
- Opening time: El Castillo is accessible on a daily basis from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Get An Idea About The Fabulous Templo De Los Dios Del Viento
Another significant structure at Tulum is the most photographed landmark of this archeologic site nestled directly next to the turquoise blue sea, Templo del Dios del Viento. This Mayan structure houses a beautiful modest altar. There is a unique hole on top of it, and it is said that when a storm was approaching, the aperture would make a whistling sound to alert the Maya when they needed to evacuate the city and seek refuge in the jungle. It is also believed to be an observatory for astronomy. Templo del Dios del Viento means The Temple of the God of the Wind, and its name derives from the base's roundness and lack of corners, which have historically been linked to the Mayan deity Kukulkán and Ehécatl, who are equal to the wind god of Central Mexico. Moreover, this god was associated with the four cardinal directions because the wind blows in all directions, so to provide minimal wind resistance, its temples were shaped like cylinders.
Tips For Taking A Picture Of The Temple Of The God Of The Wind
Templo del Dios del Viento is often taken as a perfect background for a lot of photos because of its excellent spot, especially with the splendid clear blue ocean lying below it with the soft white sandy beach. To find a great angle for their pictures, tourists will have to walk the trail lining the magnificent cliff edge behind the largest structure inside Tulum’s archeological site, El Castillo.
What To Know Before Visiting The Exceptional Tulum Ruins
It is true that tourists cannot go inside the bewitching El Castillo and the dazzling Templo De Los Dios Del Viento, but they can follow the designed trail to closely discover all the interesting ruins of this small ancient village. They can also spot different species of birds, some iguanas and coatis, as well as sea turtles. However, if it is turtle nesting season, it is better to watch them from a far distance to avoid causing any harm to the animals or their eggs. Furthermore, travelers are asked to respect the rules and guides as well as to act with responsibility, to keep the place clean by packing their trash and throwing them in the indicated places, and by refraining from drawing and carving on the stones of the ruins.