Tulum is a Mayan archaeological site on Mexico's Riviera Maya. It is located about one hour south of Cancun also 15 miles south of Akumal. This breathtaking place is on a cliff overlooking the brilliant turquoise waters of the Caribbean.
Tulum means fence, trench or wall, and is the name given to the site in recent times because of the wall surrounding it. It was also was once called “Zama”, meaning place of the dawning. The walled Maya city of Tulum is a large post-Classic site overlooking the Caribbean in dramatic fashion. Tulum served as a trading port. It is generally accepted that Tulum was a major city in Mayan world between 1000 A.D. and 1600 A.D. Its choice spot on the shore of the Caribbean made it the center of commerce for the Mayans. Merchandise arrived by boat and was processed through Tulum before being sent onto central Mexico.
In recent years, Tulum has become a main tourist attraction in the Mayan Riviera for those who are fond of ancient architecture and craftsmanship. There are about 60 well preserved buildings on the site of Tulum today. The most significant of these have plaques with information in English, Spanish and Mayan. Mayan Ruins of Tulum are amazing site to behold. It is one of the best-preserved coastal Maya sites, and the third most-visited archeological spot in Mexico. The archeological ruins at Tulum have a number of excellently well preserved structures and buildings to explore and the scenery is outstanding. One of these is The Temple of the Frescoes which is famous for housing multiple 13th century murals which picture ancient ceremonies highly regarded by the Mayans. Another is The Castillo Pyramid is known as a scenic place offering multiple breathtaking incoming sea invaders. The beach at the Tulum ruins definitely merits a mention, because it's one of the most fine-looking beaches along the Mayan Riviera, and great for taking a swim after visiting the ruins. After hiking through the jungle and walking through the ancient stone buildings of the walled city, one is suddenly struck by the image of the shocking blue ocean against the setting of the ruins and cliffs. It will take your breath away.
Tulum has wonderful, sandy beaches and no large Tulum hotels. It's a perfect spot for those who like to splash around in the water and lie on the beach away from the resort scene. One must try to snorkel or dive one of many crystal clear cenotes, or underwater caves. Your vacation in Tulum might be an incredible transformational experience.
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