35 Fascinating Facts About the Mayans

[Judi Lynn]

2. From Pyramids To Cenotes: These Are 10 Types Of Mayan Archeological Attractions To See

Ancient Maya cities are some of the most incredible archeological sites in the Americas. Here are the types of ancient Maya ruins to see today.

AARON
PUBLISHED JUN 16, 2023



Mayan ruins of Uxmal, Mexico, Yucatan peninsula

The Maya are regarded as one of the great civilizations of pre-Columbian Mesoamerica. While the Aztecs and Inca formed large and powerful empires, the Maya were a series of often rivaling city-states and were never a unified country or empire. But these city-states shared much of the over-arching culture, and they built many impressive monuments - some of which are among the most impressive structures of the pre-Columbian Americas.

The Maya built a range of structures in their cities - many of which survive in the present day. That means there are many different types of Mayan ruins to see. To discern between them and inspire history-buff travelers, here are ten types of Maya ruins to see today.



The Maya ruins and pyramid at Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico

When most people think of Chichen Itza and other ancient Maya archeological sites, they often think of the ancient Mayan pyramids tourist groups tend to visit the most (i.e., the most famous). These massive pyramids were constructed by hand over many years without the aid of the wheel, pack animals, or metal tools.

They were often built in layers with a new larger pyramid built overtop of the smaller older one.

Maya Walls: See Rare Maya Walls At Tulum



Mayan Ruins Of Tulum Besides Caribbean Sea

Defensive city walls protecting Maya cities are rare. But at Tulum, visitors can see a rare example of a fortified Maya city (one of the most interesting Mayan ruins to see today).

In the past, Tulum in Mexico was a coastal trading city overlooking the Caribbean. The city is protected by steep sea cliffs on the seaward side (these parts do not have walls) and by city walls on the landward side.

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