Tulum

Tulum is one of several port cities for the Mayans. They did engage in extensive trade with others further south. One thing that impressed me during the trip was the absolute lack of minerals, besides limestone, in the Yucatan. The soil is only a few inches deep, making meaningful agriculture very difficult. This hampers the areas development now, as it must have in the past also. The Mayans were in a decline even before the Spanish arrived. When the Spanish did arrive, they saw many of the ruins as we do, and must have wondered about their history. Since there were no precious metals to be found, they just rolled on through to the interior of Mexico for "better pickins".

This is the main entrance to Tulum.

A diorama shows the layout. This site is well-excavated, restored, and maintained with nicely cut lawns. The ocean breezes keep it much cooler than the inland sites also. As this was the afternoon tour, the relative coolness was appreciated.

Our guide referred to the tram which took us to the ruins as the "Choo-choo".

Hummm.... I wonder about him sometimes.

This temple was constructed over a cenote, illustrating the religious significance of cenotes to the Mayans.

Another well-preserved structure. Some of these were palaces for the religious leaders.

Nice digs with a great view!


Recently, large deposits of silicone have been discovered in the area. However, efforts by the indigenous people to access them have been thwarted by her saying, "Get away, you little pervert!"

The giant columns give an indication of large roof structures which once existed over some buildings.

There were some indications of decorative art, besides carvings. Here is a hand-print of a six and four fingered hand. Evidence of aliens?



Panted murals were on one temple walls.

Unfortunately, time has taken it's toll on their quality.

Mimi in her "explorer" outfit.

Zeta, Jessica's mom. is having a great time exploring the ruins.

Back to the coastal cliffs, this temple directly overlooks the Pacific Ocean.

And the staircase beside it leads down to the beach area. I could imagine the Mayans carrying-up loads recently arrived on boats from Central and South America.
Next: Time for some fun on the zip-lines !