Tulum archaeological zone, a must-see sight on your visit to Tulum

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When thinking of Tulum, the first thing that comes to mind is relaxation, rest, fun and adventure. Although the beach and coral reefs are very popular sights for touristsin this area, the archaeological zone is one of the attractions that you cannot miss, especially if you travel with your family. You´re about to read everything you need to know in order to anticipate your trip.

The archaeological zone of Tulum is located 4.5 kilometers from the center of town, with a privileged location on the shore of the Caribbean Sea. The ruins are one of the best preserved in the Peninsula, whose buildings date from the post-classical period of the Mayan civilization around 1200 to 1450 AD.

During its splendor, Tulumserved as major trading post for neighboring cities around the area as well as to other communities to the southin what is now Central America. Butshortly after the arrival of the Spaniards to the country in the 16th century, the ancient Mayas who once called this majestic site their home abandoned it.

The archaeological zone of Tulum is open from Monday to Sunday from 08:00 to 17:00; The tour lasts between an hour and an hour and a half, in which you will be able to see:

• El Castillo (The Castle): It´s the most imposing and attractive building since it is located on the highest point of the ruins. Its function was to guide the boats of the navigators through the coral reef, as a lighthouse. In addition, on the lowest level there are temples where offerings were deposited on altars, and on the upper level the main religious ceremonies were celebrated. Although the castle is in a good condition, as well as the rest of the ruins, fromthe sculptures and paintings that once had vivid colors now only remain stucco masks leftovers.
• Templo de los Frescos (Temple of the Frescoes):Its name is attributed to thewall paintings that decorate its interior with beautiful bright colors, which represent the gods and supernatural beings that were part of the pre-Hispanic Mayan culture.
• Templo de la Serie Inicial(Temple of the Initial Series): It´s a one room building that stands out as the only site that has a complete initial series: 10.2.9.1.9, 9 Muluk 7 Zac (July 28, 878 AD). It is also the only pyramidal construction that consists of three sloping bodies, with a staircase to the west and the Temple of Sacrifices at the top.

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• Gran Palacio (Grand Palace): Also known as “House of the Lords” or “House of the HalachUinik” since it was the home of the nobility of the ancient town of Tulum. In addition, in this structure you can see the representation of the god Kukulcán.
• Casa de lasColumnas (House of Columns):It´s the largest complex of the entire compound, built on an L-shaped platform. Inside there are two main rooms and one in the center, where there is a sanctuary.
• Templo del Dios Descendente (Temple of the Descending God):It´s a building built on a small base, where we can see the statue of the Descending God at the access door: it´s a winged deity, which seems to fall from the sky with its face straight ahead, and although it´s the main iconographic element of the ruins From Tulum, very little is known about that god and he is only seen represented here, which is why it is thought that it was the main cult center.
• Casa del Cenote: Located near the northwest entrance, this place was considered sacred by the ancient Maya, as sacrifices, offerings and religious ceremonies were organized. It should be noted that there is no water inside the cenote, but in the rainy season it accumulates in the cavity.
• Caleta de Tulum: Located between the Castle and the Temple of the Wind (dedicated to Kukulkán) is the sanctuary for turtles. A small closed beach where the white turtle and the loggerhead nest. Both, species that travel between June and September to lay their eggs.

These are just some of the attractions of the archaeological zone of Tulum. After your departure you can swim in the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea and rest on the fine sand. Remember to wear comfortable clothes, sunscreen and lots of energy for all the beauties you will see.

If you are planning your next trip to this beautiful magical town, with an ancestral culture and the remains of ancient civilizations, make your reservation at Orchid House. A Boutique Hotel in Tulum where you will have a stay as comfortable as if you were at home, but with the experience of luxury and beauty that you expect on your vacation. Make your reservation today in our Villas in Tulum Mexico and plan your next vacation.