Cancun Vacation and Information Center

What makes this archaeological site stand out compared to other ruins in the region is its remarkable locale. This limestone citadel was constructed atop a splendid rocky cliff overlooking the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea and a lovely sheltered beach. The natural setting and panoramic view of the gorgeous coastline is worth the visit to this spectacular site. When you add the impressive limestone structures and elaborate carvings of this ancient city to the scenery, you will truly be astounded by this beautiful setting.

The earliest verified date at this site is 564 A.D. It is easy to see why this Mayan trade hub was constructed at this location. In addition to the unmatched beauty of this location, it is built near a break in the barrier reef that allowed sea faring traders to visit the location to trade goods from along the coast. The construction of the city next to a steep cliff also helped to defend Tulum against potential invaders and raiders. Tulum, the walled city, is one of the few cities that were fortified in this manner during this period in Mexico. Land based trade routes also converged at this site. Archaeologists have unearthed evidence at this site that shows evidence of trade from Central Mexico down to Central America. Some of the goods traded at Tulum include jade, obsidian, ceramics, and copper, among other goods.

Tulum reached its height of influence during the late Post-Classic period which lasted into the early Sixteenth Century, around the time that Spanish explorers first arrived in the region. The invasion of the conquistadors and the diseases they carried from Europe doomed this once burgeoning port city. You will be amazed by the intricately carves friezes and mysterious temples where you can still see some of the pigment from the interior frescoes. We offer several guided excursions with round-trip transportation to this fantastic archaeological site located on a phenomenal seascape.