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Xaman-Há: Playa del Carmen's Hidden Mayan Archaeological Treasure

Discover secret vestiges
Playa del Carmen's archaeological site, Xaman-Há, is located in Playacar, an exclusive resort area. Xaman-Há is Mayan for “water from the north,” since it is located on the shore.

 

Its three structures indicate that it was a small Mayan city and a port during the late postclassical period and that its inhabitants developed fishing and agricultural techniques. Archaeologists have also determined that it was part of the Ecab principality and that Mayas engaged in sacred pilgrimages to the sanctuary of the goddess Ixchel, in Cozumel.

 

One of the most important structures available to the public is base C-1, which features well-preserved late calendrical dates in the Mayan region. These markings take the shape of a mural. There is also a U-shaped wall surrounding the main structures.

 

Guided TourAlthough the archaeological site is not officially open to the public, access can be granted if you notify to Playacar's control area. For a guided tour, contact the INAH Center in Quintana Roo five days in advance. Their phone numbers are (983) 837 2411 and 837 0796, ext. 318002 and 318003.

 

The Playacar resort subdivision is located north of downtown. The best way to tour it is by Segway, which you can rent on Fifth Avenue Playa del Carmen.
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