Before the Spanish colonisation in the 16th century, the ancient Maya civilization stood as one of the most advanced societies in the Western Hemisphere. Their profound understanding of astronomy and mathematics led to the development of a complex calendar system. They employed intricate hieroglyphics to document their rich history and constructed magnificent, elaborately adorned cities boasting pyramids, temples, and plazas.
At its zenith, the Mayan civilization encompassed around 40 cities across Central America, including regions of southern Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, Belize, El Salvador, and Nicaragua. Within the Mexican states of Yucatán, Quintana Roo, and Chiapas, numerous settlements, some housing up to 50,000 inhabitants, still stand today. These remarkable sites offer visitors an unparalleled glimpse into the social, cultural, and religious practices of the ancient Maya people.
From meticulously restored sites like Chichen Itza to the untamed, jungle-entwined pyramids and ceremonial temples of Calakmul, here are some of the must-visit Mayan Ruins Mexico has to offer, promising an unforgettable journey through history.
1. Chichen Itza
Majestic Mayan Ruins of Chichen Itza in Mexico, featuring the iconic Temple of Kukulcan pyramid, a testament to ancient Mesoamerican architecture.
Awarded the prestigious title of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007, the exceptionally well-preserved Chichen Itza, located in Yucatán, stands as Mexico’s most renowned Mayan ruin. Despite its popularity and the inevitable crowds, visitors are consistently captivated by El Castillo, a meticulously restored pyramid that soars to a height of 80 feet and features 365 steps. Another highlight within this expansive city is the tlachtli, recognized as the largest Mayan ball court in all of the Americas, offering a fascinating insight into the ancient Mayan rituals and societal structures. For anyone exploring Mayan ruins Mexico, Chichen Itza is an essential destination.
2. Tulum
Inhabited until the 16th century, Tulum distinguishes itself as one of the final cities inhabited by the Maya civilization and uniquely, the only one built directly on the coast. While the pyramids at Tulum may not rival the sheer size of other Mayan ruins in Mexico, its breathtaking location more than compensates. Perched atop 40-foot-high cliffs overlooking the stunning turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, just south of Cancun, Tulum offers a visually spectacular and historically significant experience. This coastal setting provides a unique perspective on Mayan life and architecture.
3. Cobá
Home to the tallest pyramid in the state of Quintana Roo, Cobá once stood as one of the most significant Mayan cities in the Yucatán region. Established around 600 CE, this expansive city eventually grew to accommodate a population of approximately 50,000 residents. Located roughly 30 miles to the west of the Tulum ruins, much of Cobá remains unexcavated, adding an element of mystery and adventure to a visit. Travelers have the opportunity to climb the impressive 138-foot-high Nohoch Mul pyramid, which rewards climbers with panoramic views across the vast Yucatán jungle. Cobá is also notable for its intricate network of sacbe, or ‘white roads’ – limestone pathways that strategically connected the city to neighboring settlements, highlighting the advanced engineering capabilities of the Maya.
4. Palenque
Lush green landscape surrounding the Mayan ruins of Palenque in Southern Mexico, known for its intricate hieroglyphs and historical insights.
Nestled deep within the lush jungles of northeastern Chiapas state in southern Mexico lies Palenque, a Late Classic Maya city celebrated for its remarkably detailed hieroglyphic inscriptions and exquisitely sculpted reliefs. These sophisticated artistic and written records have been invaluable in enhancing archaeologists’ understanding of ancient Mayan history, mythology, and intricate calendar systems. Exploring Palenque provides a profound connection to the intellectual and artistic achievements of the Mayan civilization. For those interested in the scholarly aspects of Mayan ruins Mexico, Palenque is a treasure trove of information.
5. Calakmul
Enshrouded by the second-largest expanse of tropical forests in the Americas, within Campeche’s Calakmul Biosphere Reserve near the Guatemalan border, Calakmul represents one of Mexico’s most untamed and remote Mayan ruins. It boasts the largest and tallest pyramid in the Yucatán and encompasses over 6,000 structures, many still partially concealed by the dense jungle foliage. The site is particularly enchanting at sunrise, when the surrounding jungle awakens with a symphony of birdsong, the calls of howler monkeys, and, for the fortunate visitor, perhaps even the roar of a jaguar. Calakmul offers an immersive experience into both Mayan history and the natural beauty of the region, perfect for adventurous travelers seeking authentic Mayan ruins Mexico experiences.
6. Ek Balam
Located approximately 25 miles north of the Yucatán city of Valladolid, Ek Balam, meaning ‘black jaguar’ or ‘jaguar star’ in the Yucatec Maya language, reached its peak during the eighth century, supporting a population exceeding 20,000 people. Its largest pyramid extends 160 meters in length and rises 105 feet high, housing the tomb of Ukit Kan Le´t Tok, who reigned as the king of Ek Balam between 770 CE and around 797 CE. Archaeologists discovered the ruler interred with an astonishing collection of over 7,000 pieces of jade, bone, ceramic, shell, and precious metal. The pyramid’s exterior walls are adorned with captivating stone jaguars, winged figures, and human skulls, providing a compelling visual narrative of Mayan beliefs and artistry.
7. Uxmal
Situated an hour’s drive from Merida, the capital of Yucatán, the seventh-century Mayan city of Uxmal once accommodated a substantial population of 25,000 inhabitants. The Uxmal ruins are integral to the Ruta Puuc, a 25-mile road network linking Uxmal with other significant archaeological sites including Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak, Labná, Oxkintok, Grutas de Calcehtok, and Grutas de Loltún. Uxmal is renowned for its distinctive Puuc architectural style, characterized by intricate stone mosaics and refined craftsmanship. Exploring Uxmal and the Ruta Puuc offers a comprehensive exploration of Mayan culture and architectural innovation in the Yucatán region.
