Tulum is a sought-after vacation destination for anyone who wants to get away from their mundane routine and immerse themselves in a tropical paradise because of its remarkable combination of ancient heritage and contemporary atmosphere.
Because there is such a wide variety of things to do and see in Tulum, the city receives over 2 million tourists annually. The city’s ruins are among the many fascinating attractions that visitors explore with a great deal of interest.
This post will provide you with ten amazing facts about the ruins of Tulum, with the goal of persuading you to travel to Mexico in order to experience this archaeological site for yourself.
Mayan city number 10 used to be quite prosperous.
Mayan civilization, one of the most advanced in human history, was responsible for the construction of Tulum approximately 820 years ago. During the entrance of Spanish conquistadors in the 15th century, the Mayans were forced to abandon the city of parking tulum ruins and find new homes in the surrounding jungles. Prior to that time, they had made their home in the city.
Tulum is home to some of the world’s best-preserved Mayan ruins, which also happen to be one of the city’s most visited tourist attractions.
9 The Selection of the Site Was Not Made at Random
The ruins of Tulum span around 24 hectares (36 acres) and are located on the eastern coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. The location of the ancient Mayan civilization, which spanned along the shore, was determined by careful calculation and was chosen with great care.
As a result of Tulum’s proximity to the ocean, the Mayans were able to cultivate trade links with other indigenous peoples from Central America, which led to the development of a thriving commercial hub. Cotton, cacao beans, and tobacco were the most common commodities that Mayans sold in return for other products.
8 of the Most Popular Vacation Spots in the World
Tulum is always on the itineraries of those who want to see Mexico’s most impressive Mayan ruins, as these ruins are located there. In point of fact, in recent years, this historical place has seen an uptick in popularity among those who have a passion for history.
The number of tourists that went to see the ruins of Tulum increased from 1 million to 2 million during the course of the last decade. You now know where to go if you’ve always wanted to find out more about the fascinating history of the Mayans, and we hope that you do.
7 The Only Mayan Ruin Found on a Clifftop
The ruin at Tulum is a great illustration of how advanced Mayan knowledge might be applied to the planning of construction. Although though they have not been acknowledged by UNESCO like Chichen Itza has, they continue to display fascinating architectural talents and are absolutely deserving of a visit.
In addition, Tulum is the only ruin in Mexico that is situated high up on the edge of a cliff, making it one of the most well preserved in the country!
The Number 6 Was Ignored for Centuries
The history of Mexico’s many ancient ruins is shrouded in mystery, and the history of Tulum’s ruins is no exception to this rule. Mayans deserted the town in the 16th century when the Spanish arrived, and it was virtually forgotten for several centuries after that!
Tulum was not found again until 1840, when it was by Frederick Catherwood and John Lloyd Stephens, two American explorers. Archaeologists continue to investigate the location and conduct excavations underwater, which is an interesting development. Who really knows what mysteries are still kept under wraps out there?
5 Used To Be A Place Of Worship
In addition to its role as a Mayan commercial hub, Tulum was also an important religious center. The Maya utilized it as a means of praising the Great Descending God, who is also referred to as Kukulcan and the Feathered Serpent. The image of this god can be seen on the frescoes that adorn the Temples.
At the Mayan harvest festivals and rites, the priests would dress up as jaguars and wear frightening masks in an effort to terrify the demonic participants. They worshiped a wide variety of animal species, and even people on occasion, in an effort to appease the Gods.
4 Be Sure That You Pick The Right Time For Your Visit
While people from all over the world travel to Tulum to discover its ancient ruins, it is important that you pick the right date for your vacation, unless you don’t mind being around other people.
November and December are the months that present Tulum at its absolute finest. This is the time of year when the risk of hurricanes has passed, the climate is at its most pleasant, and the peak travel season has not yet begun.
3 Its Original Name Is Zama
Another intriguing aspect of the history of Tulum is that the city was formerly known as… Zama. It literally translates to “place of the dawning sun” in the Mayan language.
The town of Tulum is located on the eastern side of the coast, with a view of the Caribbean Sea, and it is the perfect place to be to take in the breathtaking sunrise every morning. As a result, the original name is an excellent choice.
2. You Are Not Allowed To Touch The Ruins
There are more than 60 structures at the ancient site of Tulum; nevertheless, the Temple of the Descending God, El Castillo, and the Temple of the Frescoes are among the most well-known of these structures.
The ruins are in a state of good preservation; however, this does not mean that they are not fragile and susceptible to being harmed. Because of this, guests are not permitted to touch the statues or climb them in any way. Thus, behave respectfully and stay on the trails that have been marked.
1 A Haven For Remarkable Animal Species
The ruins of Tulum can be found within Tulum National Park, which is a veritable haven for several species of wild animals. There is a good chance that you will come face to face with turtles, spider monkeys, deer, parrots, and toucans.
Jaguars are known to call this place home, but there’s no need to be alarmed. They steer clear of public view and never appear in popular areas, such as the ruins at Tulum, for example. Hence, there is absolutely no reason for you to be concerned.