by Jennifer Eblin

Created on: October 11, 2007

Cancun has a deep history that many travelers overlook while on vacation. They focus on the beautiful beaches, and all the outdoor activities typically found on the beach. Visitors who spend their time laying on the beaches, or snorkeling and sailing in the crisp ocean, are missing out on the best historical sights in Cancun.

Las Ruinas del Rey is an ancient Mayan ruin located inside the Hotel Zone. The site has a long history; it was found in the 16th century, but lost and discovered again in the 1800s. Also known as the Ruins of the King, it was excavated in 1954 and archaeologists theorize that it was an astronomy tower, and royal burial ground. It is worth a trip to gaze at this amazing structure. The site is open 8 am-5 pm every day, and admission is $3 each, but free on Sundays.

Rio Bec Route, also known as the Valley of the Masks is one of the largest amounts of Mayan ruins in the world. The ruins are also some of the most elaborate ones found, with carefully decorated roof combs and carved doorways. Located in Rio Bec Route is the Building of Masks, with six foot high marks carved into staircases. Numerous burial mounds have been found inside, with up to 500 still waiting to be uncovered. The site is open daily from 8 am-5 pm, and admission is $1, with an additional $3 fee for video cameras.

Chichen Itza is perhaps the best historical sight in Cancun, and one people come from all over the world to visit. The ruins are divided into several different areas and are hidden deep within jungle, but are well worth visiting. El Castillo, also known as The Castle, is the central building, with the others surrounding it. After climbing the hundreds of stairs to the top of the pyramid, you are treated to a breathtaking view of the city, which is in stark contrast to the dark and overpowering feel inside the pyramid. The way the area was planned by the ancient Mayans, during the Vernal Equinox the shadows cast from the sun create the appearance of a snake moving down the pyramid. Its been estimated that 40,000 people arrive every year to watch this feat unfold.

The Temple of the Warriors is also located at Chichen Itza, and features carved columns and reliefs. Some of this Temple still remains unrestored. The Observatory is a round building at the site, with large windows that look out towards the sunset. The Nunnery contains the most complete structures at the site when it was first discovered. It is thought that this was where the Mayans at Chichen Itza lived, and every part of the walls are decorated in some way. The ruins also contain the Ball Court where the Mayans played their games during ancient times.

No trip to Cancun is complete without seeing these historic sights.

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