Tulum
Poised on a 49 foot (15 meter) high cliff, Tulum may not be the most magnificent of the Mayan ruins but its location overlooking the Caribbean Sea certainly makes it one of the most beautiful sites. Known by the ancient Maya as “Zama” meaning “morning” because of its orientation towards the sunrise, Tulum served as an important commercial link between the sea and the mainland in the post-classic period (1200 to 1521). However, some elements found on this site indicate that the first settlements may date back to the years 400 to 500 AD. After it was abandoned, Tulum was given its current name meaning “wall” or “enclosure”, a clear reference to the walls that to this day surround it on the northern, western and southern ends. The adjacent little town of Tulum marks the end of the Riviera Maya. The atmosphere here is laid back, ideal for relaxing on white sand beaches and enjoying the local restaurants and souvenir shops. Accommodations range from rustic cabanas to small and secluded boutique hotels.
|