El Meco
El Meco, anciently known as Beel’maan, is an archaeological Maya site.
El Meco was a major pre-Columbian Maya port city and maritime trade site on the East Coast of Quintana Roo during the Postclassic period of the Maya civilization until the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors.
El Meco stands out as a fascinating place. Located just outside of downtown Cancun, the site offers an easy respite from the crowds, making it a hidden gem that tourists overlook in favor of more well-known sites.
El Meco is a small but influential Mayan archaeological site that has been well-preserved. The influence of the ancient Mayan deity Itzamna is evident here, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich spiritual history.
El Meco is an intriguing destination for seeking to explore lesser-known Mayan ruins near Cancun. El Meco is renowned for its mystical atmosphere, and architectural beauty, complemented by the lush vegetation.
History
Origin of the name
The original name of El Meco remains a subject of debate. Some sources suggest that the original name has been lost, and “El Meco” was later assigned by the owner of a coconut plantation that once occupied the area.
Other accounts claim the ancient name was Beel’maan, which means “channel of commerce”. This interpretation highlights the site’s significant role in facilitating trade with nearby settlements, including Isla Mujeres.
Early Habitation and Historical Roots
The initial settlement of El Meco likely began between 250 and 600 CE.
Archaeological evidence from the site’s foundational layers suggests its origins as a modest fishing village. However, around 600 CE, the settlement was abandoned and remained uninhabited for nearly 400 years.
El Meco saw a resurgence during the Postclassic Period (900–1500 CE).
At that time, El Meco became an integral part of the Mayan coastal trade network. Its strategic location fostered connections with Chichén Itzá and later Mayapán, positioning El Meco as an economic and political hub.
Strategic Importance and Economic Growth
By 1200 CE, El Meco had established itself as a significant coastal trading center, benefiting from its proximity to Isla Mujeres. This strategic location enabled it to serve as a control point for commerce along the Yucatán Peninsula.
El Meco became one of the most active ports on the Caribbean coast, alongside others like Xcaret, Xel-Há, Tulum, Tankah, and Muyil.
El Meco’s economic success also influenced its political and religious development. The site housed ceremonial structures, reinforcing its dual role as a center for trade and spirituality.
Abandonment After the Spanish Conquest
The arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century marked the decline of El Meco. Like many other Mayan sites, it was abandoned, leaving behind a legacy preserved in its ruins.
The site has since become a valuable window into the Mayan world, though its association with the location known as Bel’ma’, mentioned by Francisco de Montejo during early Spanish explorations, remains uncertain.
The site
Layout and Significance of the Site
El Meco features several ceremonial structures, altars, and shrines distributed across a series of plazas.
The site is primarily religious, with 14 structures identified during archaeological excavations, all contributing to the area’s sacred significance. Most of these buildings remain in excellent condition, providing a vivid glimpse into the Mayan way of life.
The orientation of these structures towards the coast underlines their ceremonial importance, with the sea playing a central role in Mayan spirituality and daily life.
El Castillo: The Crown Jewel of El Meco
The centerpiece of the site is El Castillo, a five-tiered pyramid that rises 12.5 meters high. It is the tallest Mayan structure on the eastern coast of Yucatan, making it a significant landmark. The pyramid faces the ocean, the only Mayan pyramid of its kind to do so, and was likely used for observing sunsets and performing religious ceremonies.
At the top of El Castillo is a temple, adding to its grandeur and importance as a focal point of pilgrimage in the region. The staircase is adorned with serpent-head sculptures, reminiscent of those found at the famous Temple of Kukulcán in Chichén Itzá, further linking El Meco to other prominent Mayan centers.
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The site is centered around a ceremonial plaza and urban center, with El Castillo serving as the focal point. A small sanctuary for offerings still stands here, adding a layer of sacred history to the surrounding area.
The foundations of small buildings are still visible, allowing visitors to imagine the structure and function of this once-thriving city, with its thatched roofs supported by sturdy wooden beams.
Archaeological Discoveries
Excavations at El Meco have revealed a wealth of historical artifacts, including fragments of ceramics dating back to 400–600 CE. These discoveries provide insight into the site’s ancient inhabitants and their daily lives. However, much remains to be uncovered, particularly the remains of a port facility located across the road, which has yet to be systematically excavated.
How to get to El Meco ruins
Driving from Cancun
Drive to El Meco taking av. Bonampak to av. Portillo Lopez. Turn right into Puerto Juarez, and then turn right when you reach the Port entrance. On your right-hand side is a large sign, albeit covered in vegetation, for El Meco.
Taxi from Cancun
The easiest way to reach El Meco is by taking a taxi. Taxis are readily available outside the ADO bus station and can take you directly to the archaeological site, which is located approximately 8 km from the city center.
Returning to Cancun
You can return to downtown Cancun using combis (public vans) that operate along av. Portillo López. These combis are an affordable and frequent mode of transportation, making them a convenient option for your return trip.
Tourist information information
Open daily from 8:00 to 16:30.
- The place is semi-shaded, which is nice when you are not in the sun.
- It is not very accessible, the area is not level enough for a wheelchair.
- Many iguanas are sunbathing and walking around the area.
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