Let’s travel back 800 years to a time when essential modern-day inventions like the telephone, television, and cars didn’t exist. When we think of pre-Hispanic civilizations, the southern region of Mexico often comes to mind. It was here, in the heart of the Mayan jungle, that ancient civilizations thrived, building magnificent pyramids, competing for territories, and coexisting with wild animals amidst dense forests. Mexico boasts stunning landscapes and a rich pre-Hispanic history hidden within its ancient ruins and relics. If you’re a knowledge seeker and nature lover, here are three must-visit ancient ruins in the Caribbean each with a fascinating history.
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Top 3 Ruins in the Caribbean :
Chichen Itza
The renowned pre-Hispanic city of Chichen Itza has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988 and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World since 2007. At its peak, Chichen Itza was the most powerful city in the Yucatan Peninsula. Established in the 9th century by the Itzaes and later invaded by the Toltecs in the 10th century, this city holds incredible historical significance. One notable feature is the Sacred Cenote, where religious ceremonies took place, evidenced by the discovery of valuable artifacts like copper, fabric, and gold. The Pyramid of Kukulkan is famous for its solar projection during the spring and autumn equinoxes, creating the illusion of a serpent descending its steps.
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Coba
Covering 70 square kilometers, the archaeological site of Coba offers a deep dive into Mayan culture. Named after its abundant lagoons and cenotes, Coba was a significant and powerful city before the rise of Chichen Itza. Unique to Coba are the Sac-Bé, or white roads, which connected trade routes between cities. Many of these ancient roads originate from Coba and are still visible today. To reach Coba, take Highway 109 from Tulum towards Nuevo Xcan, and after 47 kilometers, you’ll arrive at Coba. We highly recommend a bicycle tour to explore the entire area of this pre-Hispanic treasure.
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Tulum Ruins
The stunning and unique pyramids of Tulum, inhabited from the 13th to the 15th centuries, are set against the backdrop of the beautiful Caribbean Sea. Located in southeastern Quintana Roo, this cultural site represents one of the last remaining Mayan settlements. It is believed that this area was inhabited long before the Mayans, with remains found in caves, now unfortunately damaged by climate change. When the Mayans arrived, they benefited from the strategic location, which offered excellent defense, essential proximity to trade routes with other Mayan cities, and connections to central Mexico.
Dive into the Mayan Culture
Visiting these ancient relics, some over 800 years old, is a remarkable experience. The ingenuity, creativity, strength, and power of ancient civilizations are evident in these constructions, helping us understand the pre-Hispanic inhabitants opyf our world. Many of these ruins use entrance fees for their maintenance, so if you visit the beautiful southern region of Mexico, don’t miss these sites. Understand the past to comprehend the present and enjoy!
