Mayan Ruins Cozumel Mexico

Experience ancient history and visit the Mayan ruins Cozumel Mexico without leaving the island. There are three Mayan ruins in Cozumel that will allow you travel back thousands of years to experience the wonders of the Mayan people. The Mayan ruins on Cozumel Island are San Gervasio, Castillo Real and El Cedral. Most people come to Cozumel for the beaches, water activities, fine dining and shopping, but to experience the Mayan traditions and culture, a visit to one of the Myan ruins Cozumel is a must.

San Gervasio Ruins

San Gervasio is considered to be the most significant Cozumel Mayan ruin site. San Gervasio is home to the temple of X’cel, the Mayan goddess of childbirth and was considered a sacred site for Mayan women. Every Mayan woman was expected to make a pilgrimage to the temple on behalf of her family. The site was also an important political and commercial center. San Gervasio is the largest Mayan ruins in Cozumel Mexico.

Castillo Real Ruins

The Castillo Real ruin site has a watchtower; similar to the Tulum Mayan ruins Cozumel. The Mayan warriors used to the tower as a look out for watch for invading rival tribes. Castillo Real is situated on the northeast coast of the island. The site is only accessible by off road buggy or jungle jeep tours. Please check with the tour desk at your hotel before visiting Castillo Real. Environmental conditions may cause the access road to close.

El Cedral Ruins

The El Cedral ruins were considered to be the center of Mayan life in Cozumel. It is believed that the first Mass in Mexico was held at El Cedral. The El Cedral ruins are unique because the buildings are different than the small and low to the ground structures at the other ruin sites. In the 1800s, El Cedral served as a jail and it is a farm community today. Each May marks the celebration of the Festival de Cedral with bullfights, dancing and music.

Other Mayan Ruins in the Yucatan Peninsula

The Yucatan Peninsula on the Mexican mainland is home to several other Mayan ruins near Cozumel. Chichen Itza, recently named one of the ancient wonders of the world, is the most well known ruin site. Chichen Itza can be traced back to the seventh century. The ruins at Chichen Itza include famous pyramid, The Castle. The Coba ruins are located between two lakes and include Nohoch Mul, the tallest pyramid in the Yucatan Peninsula and The Inglesia, the second tallest pyramid. The Tulum ruins are home to the The Castillo and The Templo de los Frescos. A Mexican vacation is not complete without experiencing ancient history and the traditional Mayan culture and visiting one of the Mayan Ruins Cozumel Mexico.