Maya Museum, Cancun (must see)

Nestled in the lush tropical forest, the modern Museo Maya de Cancún stands out as a distinct alternative to the usual beach and resort activities in the area. This museum, with its contemporary design, offers an insightful look into Mayan history and culture, showcasing an extensive collection of Mayan artifacts. These artifacts, many unearthed from significant regional archaeological sites, provide a comprehensive understanding of the Mayan civilization.

The Museo Maya de Cancún, which opened in 2012, was a response to the need for more cultural attractions in Cancún, a city predominantly recognized for its beaches and vibrant nightlife. The museum's architecture, a creation of Mexican architect Alberto García Lascurain, features hurricane-resistant elements and modern design. It houses numerous Maya relics found across the Yucatán Peninsula and also shares its location with the San Miguelito Ruins.

The museum's unique location in one of the remaining jungle areas within the Zona Hotelera allows for an immersive experience. The design, characterized by open spaces and large windows, offers visitors views of the surrounding forest and Laguna Nichupté, echoing the region's ancient landscape.

The museum comprises three main exhibition halls, accessible via a spiral outdoor staircase symbolic of the Maya snail shell, representing rebirth. While two halls display a permanent collection of over 3500 artifacts, with around 400 items exhibited at a time, the third hall hosts temporary Maya-themed exhibits. These exhibits include a range of items, such as painted pottery, jewelry, funerary masks, and stone monuments. One of the highlights is the La Mujer de las Palmas, a 12,000-year-old skeleton discovered near Tulum.

A short walk from the museum through the jungle leads to the San Miguelito archaeological site, once a thriving Maya maritime community. The site, which includes the nearby El Rey Ruins, was an important Maya port until the mid-16th century. Visitors can explore the site, which features residences, a palace, a temple, and a pyramid, with explanatory placards providing context for these historical structures.