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Travelers can look forward to adding yet another impressive Mayan site to their Mexican Caribbean itinerary this summer after officials opened the Cobá Archeological Zone to the public this week.
The ruins are some of the oldest and most significant in the region and had been closed for some time while renovations were taking place to prepare the site for the arrival of thousands of travelers thanks to the launching of the Maya Train later this year.
With archeological and historical tourism trending this year, here’s the latest on these must-visit ruins.
A Stunningly Well-Preserved Archeological Site
The ancient Mayan civilization once thrived in present-day Quintana Roo, with several dozen archeological sites offering travelers the chance to step back into the past.
Most travelers will be familiar with the extremely-popular Tulum Archeological Zone, which welcomes millions of travelers each year, as well as the astounding Chichen Itzá, which is classified as one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.
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@cmbender Coba, Mayan Ruins outside of Cancun, Mexico. #cobaruins #mayanruins #cancun #coba #mayans #mexico ♬ Shamanic (Mayan Music) – Caleb Hennessy
But a new Mayan site is set to explode in popularity this year with the completion of Mexico’s flagship infrastructure project, the Maya Train, slated for opening this December.
The ruins in question constitute the Cobá Archeological Zone, a collection of ancient Mayan buildings and temples that travelers can now explore thanks to extensive conservation efforts.
Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) announced the reopening of the historical ruins this week after months of renovations and other efforts to prepare the site for the arrival of mass tourism.
@amoytravels #mayanhistory #pyramids #mexico #tulum #archeology #ruins #mayanruins #fyp #travel #yucatanpeninsula ♬ Outdoors – Colin Tierney
Situated just 47 kilometers northwest of Tulum, Cobá is one of the major targets of the regional government’s Promeza program, an initiative aimed at improving the accessibility, conservation, and quality of unexplored Mayan sites with the aim of attracting more visitors.
One Of The Most Significant Mayan Sites In The Mexican Caribbean
Cobá was first settled by the Mayan peoples sometime between 50 BC and 100 AD and was originally a mere outpost. But its population quickly boomed, and at its peak, the city reached a population of up to 50,000 people covering an area of more than 80 square kilometers.
Nowadays, Cobá is mostly known for housing several monuments that depict rituals and important turning points of the Mayan people. But it’s most famous for its towering Ixmoja pyramid, which stands at a height of 42 meters.
And it’s precisely that historical relevance that officials are hoping to capitalize on with new investments in the sprawling ruins.
Although currently overshadowed by Tulum’s well-known archeological zone, it’s very likely that Cobá will too obtain its share of the spotlight, especially after the Maya train officially begins operations this December.
Practical Information For Travelers
Officials expect thousands of travelers to flock to explore Cobá’s vibrant history and even more visitors later this year. And luckily, the ruins are relatively easy to reach, although it’ll require some planning.
Cobá is conveniently close to several Mexican Caribbean hotspots. Situated around an hour to an hour and a half from the Riviera Maya and just 30 minutes from Tulum, it’s an easy addition to any history-lovers itinerary.
The ruins are best reached by car or a private transfer, but a much more convenient way to visit them is by booking a tour. This 5-star-rated private excursion from Tulum lasts for 5 hours, giving participants plenty of time to explore the ancient site.
Cobá is open to the public between 08:00 a.m. and 05:00 p.m. from Monday to Sunday.
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Nate
Sunday 16th of July 2023
The ruins were never closed so idk who lied to you. You need to verify your sources before you write another article.