Have you ever stood at a place, closed your eyes and tried to imagine what the particular spot looked like through time? Who roamed these lands before us? Such thoughts are certain to take you on a voyage of discovery. Well, if you are curious enough.

I happen to visit a few spots in Mexico where the Mayans roamed and flourished during their glorious days. These spots are proof of their expertise in art, architecture, commerce, mathematics and astronomical study. These spots were once the hub of commerce and activity with advanced land and sea routes. These spots have once witnessed the Mayan human sacrifices and other bizarre traditions.

Tulum Ruins

Image Courtesy – Locogringo

So, the first spot we went to was the Tulum ruins. It is located on shores of the Carribean sea, about 5 Km (14 minutes) from Tulum city and about 140 Km (1 hour 45 mins) drive from Cancun, Mexico. We flew to Cancun from Mexico City and took a bus to Tulum. These spots thrive on tourism, hence the local public transport system is very tourist friendly. They also accepted US dollars almost everywhere.

Every Mayan city is built for a specific reason, to fulfill a specific requirement. The city of Tulum is the only city built on the coast becoming the seaport of the Mayan civilization trading several goods like Turquoise, Jade, copper bells, cacao etcetera. Tulum is also one of the only few Mayan cities protected by a limestone wall.