In the area near the city of Cancun we find several Mayan ruins that we can visit. El Meco is one of the oldest maritime settlements you can visit.
I have a special affection for El Meco because we live two kilometers from the archaeological zone. On Sundays it is the day that we do not pay nationals and residents in Mexico, so I escaped many times alone or with a friend, also to bluff with friends from Green Jay Maya Birding. It is undoubtedly the most visited archeological site, and it is full of beautiful memories for me. The Meco is worth gold to me, I recognize the roots of some trees in the enclosure to sit in its shadow.
The place is small but very rich in wildlife. If you go attentive, you will surely see coatis and birds that approach the area. It is a small shelter of nature between asphalt that has been devouring the coast.
East Coast Architectural Style
Many settlements on the Caribbean coast, the state of Quintana Roo, They were founded earlier, but the area resurfaced notably in the postclassic period (900-1500 AD). With the passage of time the Mayan civilization was more akin to coastal life and the use of its resources. A solid maritime trade developed in this area with imposing cities such as Tulum.
Port cities such as El Rey, San Miguelito, Xcaret or Xel-ha were other important settlements along the coastal strip. Here one of the Architectural styles of the Mayan civilization, the East Coast.
Meet our 5 archaeological sites safety pins of Quintana Roo
El Meco archaeological site
The Meco it was one of the most notable settlements on this coast. It occupies a strategic location and its proximity to Isla Mujeres made it a significant port. This island and that of Cozumel were important pilgrimage centers to the Goddess Ixchel, goddess of love, pregnancy, textile work, the moon and medicine.
The notoriety of the place is reflected in its Castle, one of the highest in the region, with 12 meters. Here you can enjoy an area of beautiful structures among lizards and vegetation. It is an excellent getaway if you are in Cancun.
A good idea is to combine the visit by having a delicious fish or seafood lunch at one of the beach restaurants in Puerto Juarez. There are several restaurants near the Mayan ruins, but near Playa Niños, the most popular beach in Cancun.
You can also go to the ceremonies they do on the premises on 21 days of each month, if you are one of those who are going this roll. Being near Cancun is a place with movement 🙂 The good life on this Caribbean coast never ends.
El Meco, archaeological site
LOCATION: El Meco is located on the coast road of Puerto Juárez- Punta Sam. Close to Cancun.SCHEDULE AND SERVICES: open from 8 a.m. to 17:XNUMX a.m. daily. They do not sell drinks or food inside. There are services at the entrance. Parking Spaces: free.
PRICE ENTRY: 55 mxn. The Sundays the entrance of INAH is free for Mexicans and permanent residents. Access to archaeological zones is free every day to children under 13 years, students, teachers and senior citizens with valid credentials.
HOW TO GET IN PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION? The collective that are directed to Puerto Juarez They leave from Crucero, in Cancún (8 mxn). You can take a private taxi (about 70 mxn from Cancun).
WHAT TO BRING? Light and light clothes, hat, insect repellent, closed and comfortable shoes to climb structures and protect yourself from insect bites, some water always goes well.
Good way,
- Offers on flights international and national ..
- Find the accommodation with the best offers from Booking.com.
- Stay with airbnb and get 25 € discount.
- Contract activities, tours and excursions organized.
- Rent a car with the indispensable and necessary best discounts.
- Secure your transfers of arrival or departure to the airport.
- Travel safely with IATI and take advantage of 5% off.
If you prefer, you tell us your idea of the trip and together we organize it.
It is surprising how ancient civilizations built and still stand despite the passage of centuries and the erosion of the planet, with its inhabitants who have little respect for it; and they remain imposing and eternal!
Thank you for making me enjoy reading and pictures, Sandra!
One abracada!!
When I go there I will feel at home.
I hope Enrique can help in that if you come, it would be a pleasure 😉 A hug and thank you very much for walking here!