The main attractions of Mexico. Archaeological zone of El Meco. Cancun - the best beaches in Mexico
Located at the crossroads of steady progress and echoes of the past, Mexico is unique in its own way. The Copper Canyon includes about two dozen picturesque canyons, which together determine the terrain. The city of Guanajuato is popular not only for its picturesque urban landscape, but also for its international music festival. Original and cheerful Mexico unites beaches caribbean and monuments ancient culture, a jungle with a unique wildlife, a rich pre-Columbian heritage of the Maya Indians.
Landmarks of Mexico
1. Teotihuacan
The Aztec civilization originated in the 2nd century BC. in the Valley of Mexico, which created Teotihuacan - also known as the city of the gods, the city is located 40 km. northeast of Mexico City is the modern capital of Mexico. Teotihuacan is the location for some of largest pyramids in the ancient world. The main attraction of Teotihuacan is the Pyramid of the Sun, which was built around 100 AD. she is the most great pyramid in Teotihuacan and throughout Mexico. Seven centuries after the collapse of the Teotihuacan empire, the pyramids were revered and used by the Aztecs and were a place of pilgrimage. Now Teotihuacan is the main attraction of Mexico.
2. Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza is the largest of the Mayan cities in the Yucatan Peninsula and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Mexico. The most famous landmark of Chichen Itza is the pyramid temple of El Castillo. The construction of the temple has a special astronomical significance. Each face of the pyramid has a staircase of 91 steps, which together form the number 365, the number of days in a year. Another attraction of Chichen Itza is El Caracol, a circular temple that served as an astronomical observatory.
3. Tulum
Tulum is located on the east coast of the Yucatan Peninsula. Tulum was built around 1200 AD when the Mayan civilization was already in decline and therefore lacks the elegance of some of Mexico's other famous landmarks.
Tulum was formerly known by the name " Herself" which means "city of dawn". The word "tulúm" in Yucatec means "fence" or "wall", and the walls around the city made it possible to protect it from attacks. Given the numerous depictions (including frescoes) of the Descending God, it can be assumed that Tulum was an important center of worship for this deity.
4. Merida (Merida Mexico)
The history of Merida goes back almost 500 years. Before the arrival of the colonists, this place was a fairly large center of Mayan culture, but after the conquest by the Spanish conquistadors, the city was completely rebuilt. For the next few decades, Merida was considered the model after which all others were built. settlements peninsulas.
This is one of the few Mexican cities where European influence dominates, almost replacing the Indian spirit. Merida represents that rare case for a South American state when tourists are attracted not by ancient Mayan ruins, but by bright and graceful colonial-style palaces and churches.
5 Copper Canyon
Copper Canyon is a canyon system in the Sierra Tarahumara region in the southwestern part of the state of Chihuahua in Mexico. The Copper Canyon is larger and deeper than the Grand Canyon in the neighboring United States. TO Anions get their name from their greenish copper color. The most popular way to see the Copper Canyon is to ride the Chihuahua Al Pacifico Railway, which runs at an altitude of 2,400 meters above sea level, during which time you will cross 37 bridges and 86 tunnels and see the Copper Canyon in all its glory with its unreal, cosmic landscape.
6. Palenque
Palenque is an archaeological site located on western outskirts Mayan Empire in the modern state of Chiapas, this place used to be a Mayan city, the construction of which dates back to the 6th century AD. The city was abandoned in the 10th century as a result of the invasion of coastal tribes. Gulf of Mexico.
The ruins of ancient Indian cities have magical magnetism and invariably attract tourists with their mystery. Palenque, once one of the most significant centers of the Mayan civilization, built on a spacious plateau, is one of these cities. In addition to tombs, elegant temple structures and numerous residential buildings, the attention of researchers is attracted by the magnificently decorated palace ensemble with extensive painting, stucco and sculptures. The main theme of the decorative elements is the image of the ruler.
7. Guadalajara
The charm of the city of Guadalajara is impossible not to succumb. Its historical center is dotted with proud local residents colonial buildings of the 17th-18th century, which today house museums, bars and hotels. More modern areas of the city boast trendy restaurants, coffee shops and nightclubs. Cut into squares by cobbled streets, Guadalajara is like a staid capital city, where life moves fast enough to keep up with the world, but slow enough for guests to enjoy all the opportunities this city has to offer.
8. Malinalco
About 95 kilometers southwest of Mexico City, on the Mount of Idols, is the archaeological site of Mexico - Malinalco. Located 220 meters above the village of the same name among green forests and rugged cliffs, this site is unique in that it is one of the very few pre-Columbian rock-cut structures in Mesoamerica. The main attraction of this archaeological site is the Kuaukalli or the House of the Eagles, which is a building carved into the side of the mountain. The temple was used to initiate members of the religious military orders known as the Knights of the Eagle and the Jaguar, the military elite of the Aztecs, as evidenced by rock-carved jaguars.
9. Los Cabos
Los Cabos is the most popular beach on the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, which stretches for as much as 30 kilometers of chic, velvet sand. The white sandy beaches of Los Cabos are a concentration of resorts, restaurants, bars and other places of rest and relaxation for tourists from all over the world. Los Cabos is a great place for lovers aquatic species sports and is considered one of the best places for fishing in the world. In winter, you can watch whales from Los Cabos beach that swim close to the shore. These places are visited by more than 2 million tourists a year.
10. Morelia
Morelia, the capital of the state of Michoacan, is located 290 kilometers west of Mexico City. The city, founded in 1541, is filled with many historical sights and if you are looking for examples of early Spanish colonial architecture, then be sure to take sightseeing tour in Morelia. It sounds fantastic, but the city center is made up of over 1,000 perfectly preserved colonial houses and churches.
It is worth starting a tour of Morelia with a beautiful main square(Plaza de Los Martires or Zócalo). On it you will see a magnificent 17th century baroque cathedral built in pinkish brown with magnificent tiles decorating the dome. The cathedral's interior also contains several noteworthy landmarks, an imposing organ built in Germany in 1903, and superb paintings above the altar and sacristy, which are by the hand of the finest Mexican painters of the early 18th century. Also of interest is the Clavijero Palace, dating from 1660, as well as one of the last remaining aqueducts in the country.
11. Cozumel
Cozumel is an island in the Caribbean, located near the Yucatan Peninsula. Cozumel is a popular diving and snorkeling destination. Undersea world around the island of Cozumel was popularized by Jacques Yves Cousteau in 1959, who called it one of the best places for scuba diving. Since that time, Cozumel has become a National marine park. The island is covered with mangrove forests which have many endemic species.
12. Dias de los Muertos in Oaxaca (Dias des los Muertos, Oaxaca)
The city of Oaxaca is famous for one of the biggest and most famous "Dis de los Muertos" or Day of the Dead festival in Mexico. This holiday is celebrated in many parts Latin America. In Mexico, the Day of the Dead is considered public holiday and is considered a local landmark of Mexico.
13. Guanajuato
Guanajuato- a city in central Mexico, as well as the capital of the state of the same name. It is located 390 km northwest of Mexico City. The name of the city means "place of frogs" and therefore the frog is the official symbol of the city. Guanajuato is a beautiful mountainous colonial city. Many tourists and locals consider Guanajuato the most beautiful in Mexico. The city is built on hilly terrain, so that almost every point in the city is on a slope. Guanajuato is famous for its network underground tunnels that serve as roads, making it truly unique.
Guanajuato was founded in 1554 next to one of the richest silver mines. In the 16th century, a boom in mining led to the construction of beautiful estates and graceful colonial buildings in the area.
14. Acapulco
Acapulco is a real, historical Mexican city and the main resort attraction in Mexico, one of the oldest beach resorts countries. Acapulco rose to prominence in the 1950s as a holiday destination for Hollywood stars and millionaires. It attracts millions of tourists every year with its heavenly climate, white sandy beaches, fantastic nightlife and the fabulous beauty of the bay, Acapulco Bay belongs to the four most beautiful bays in the world.
Still, Acapulco remains popular tourist destination, especially among Mexicans and Americans, mainly students who come here for spring break. Acapulco is located 300 kilometers from Mexico City.
15. Oaxaca
Capital of the province of the same name,Oaxacais located in a valley below the Sierra Madre mountains.Colonial architecture, archaeological sites, a relaxed atmosphere, and one of the best Day of the Dead have made Oaxaca a popular tourist attraction in Mexico. heartOaxaca is a charming area, the Zócalo, where tourists can admire the beautiful colonial church of Santo Domingo, as well as visit tourist museums, shop for souvenirs or relax in outdoor cafes.
16. Taxco
Travelers with a passion for silver jewelry should naturally visit Taxco, a colonial city famous for "silverworks".Located in the northern state of Guerrero, Taxco was once the most important mining area in the New World. Taxco is unique in itsstreets paved with stones, huge colonial houses with balconies, small squares and silver workshops.
What to see in Mexico?
The most beautiful places and main attractions.
Founded in the 7th century AD the sacred city of one of the Maya tribes - Itza is located one hundred and twenty kilometers from the capital of the Yucatan Peninsula. The architectural richness of the ancient settlement is made up of the nine-step Temple of Kukulkan and two small temples - the Warriors and the Jaguars, a well used for sacrifices, a huge ball court and a giant rectangle formed from the ruins of columns.
The main Catholic temple of the Mexican capital was built on the site of a former Aztec sanctuary dedicated to the god of war - Huitzilopochtli. The construction of the cathedral was carried out from the beginning of the 16th to the beginning of the 19th century. united in itself architectural features baroque, renaissance and neoclassicism the temple was erected in honor of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
One of the richest museums in Mexico is located in Chapultepec Park (Mexico City). It consists of two large departments - archaeological and ethnographic. The exposition of the museum is represented by exhibits of the pre-Columbian era, which include the famous Aztec calendar - the Stone of the Sun, Mayan treasures and cultural and archaeological finds belonging to other ancient Mexican civilizations.
Founded in 1785, the Chapultepec Palace was used as a government residence for a long time. At one time it housed the military academy and the National Astronomical Observatory. Since 1939, the main exposition of the National Historical Museum has been exhibited in a majestic building built in the neoclassical style.
The main national park of the country got its name because of the moss that grows on the slopes of a one and a half kilometer canyon and casts copper from afar. The bottom of the natural attraction is covered with subtropical forests. IN copper canyon the third part of all Mexican animals lives, among which you can meet a black bear, a Mexican wolf and a cougar.
located on Pacific coast resort and concurrently the "night capital" of Mexico gained world fame in the fifties of the XX century. Modern Acapulco is a city of gently sloping sandy beaches, water attractions, fishing, the best discos in the country and constant thirty degrees Celsius both in winter and in summer.
Spread over an area of eighty hectares caribbean park entertainment is at the same time a place of free living a large number wild animals. Numerous beaches, a turtle farm, a butterfly park, a trip along an underground river and nightly performances telling about the history of ancient civilizations make Xkaret a favorite vacation spot for both children and adults.
The oldest city in the Western Hemisphere, the date of foundation of which raises questions even among experienced archaeologists, is located fifty kilometers from Mexico City. Two of its pyramids - the Moon and the Sun are the main historical sights of the ancient settlement. The remains of sacrificed people and animals were found in the pyramid of the moon. The Pyramid of the Sun is a large-scale structure almost sixty-five meters high.
Natural limestone wells filled with groundwater were used by the Mayan Indians as places for collecting water and offerings. Cenotes were considered the gates to the Kingdom of the Dead and belonged to the category of sacred objects. Today, a number of natural wells in the Yucatan are a favorite dive site for diving enthusiasts.
Reaching a diameter of four hundred meters, the island is entirely built up with white and pink rows of houses, accommodating no more than a thousand permanent residents. The legendary home of the Aztecs and the national Mexican drink mezcal is now engaged in fishing and shrimp fishing. Once a year, Mescaltitan hosts a ship regatta and a festival dedicated to Saints Peter and Paul.
The capital of the state of Campeche was founded by the Spanish conquistadors in 1540 on the site of an ancient Mayan settlement. Located in the west of the Yucatan, the city still looks like a fortress built in it in the 16th-18th centuries to protect against pirates. The main attractions of San Francisco de Capeche are the forts, Botanical Garden and the Franciscan Cathedral.
Tulum differs from other Mayan cities with a high wall built by the Indians to protect against the raids of the northern nomadic peoples. The most massive urban structure, located closest to the sea - the temple and fortress of El Castillo, according to archaeologists, could serve as a lighthouse. The temple of frescoes is a clear evidence of the ancient worldview, dividing reality into the underworld (death), earthly (life) and heavenly (gods).
A huge number of ruins, located on an area of fifteen square kilometers, testify to the former greatness of the ancient Mayan city - Lakam-ha. The modern name of the complex - Palenque - was given to it by the Spanish conquerors. The center of the ancient architectural composition is the Palace, which consists of several large and small courtyards. Three temple pyramids (of the Sun, the Cross and the Leafy Cross) symbolize the ceiba tree, which, according to Indian legends, holds the entire Universe.
Main Opera theatre Mexican capital was built in the first third of the 20th century by the Italian architect A. Boari. Carrara marble walls and opulent Art Deco decor make this building one of the most the most beautiful buildings New World. In the Palace of Fine Arts is the famous fresco by Diego Rivera - "At the Crossroads".
Created by British sculptor Jason de Cairos Taylor, the unusual underwater museum can be called one of the most expensive in terms of visits - the price of a ticket to it ranges from one hundred dollars. The art installation of four hundred modern objects is divided into three parts and is available for viewing to anyone who knows how to use scuba gear.
A tiny island located in the south of Mexico City turned into the last refuge of dolls by accident, when a hermit who lived on it in the middle of the last century found a toy of a drowned girl in the river and hung it on a tree. Over time, the man began to collect dolls and decorate the island with them. Today, sun-bleached and insect-eaten toys give the area an eerie, surreal feel.
Growing out of a fishing village, a large Mexican resort is loved by tourists from all over the world. In Cancun, the daytime temperature never drops below twenty-four degrees, and the beaches located on it are distinguished by the cleanliness and richness of the waves so necessary for surfing. Five star hotels and developed infrastructure resorts allow you to relax in Cancun with maximum convenience.
Huge gypsum crystals began to form in a cave near the city of Chihuahua about twenty-six million years ago. Growing at one hundred percent humidity and a temperature of fifty-eight degrees Celsius, the "rays" weigh several tens of tons and reach a length of eleven meters.
In the number of seven extreme entertainment Xplor Park includes river and cave rafting, cable car rides, jungle buggy rides and hammock rides. Professional instructors closely monitor vacationers and help them overcome obstacles. An additional means of security and tracking is a helmet with a microchip built into it.
The house standing in the Coyoacan area, in which he spent his last days and was killed in 1940 by Leon Trotsky, was turned into a museum in 1990. The building, located on the corner of Rio Churubusco and Vienna, exhibits a temporary exhibition of documents and a public library that belonged to a Soviet communist.
Despite all the stereotypes in society regarding Mexico and everything connected with it, in fact this country has more deep culture and values that are complemented by beautiful nature and amazing sights. Among the beauties of Mexico and rainforests, and picturesque coastlines, and historically valuable monuments of antiquity, and many incredible places worth visiting. long flight- perhaps the only unpleasant moment of traveling to Mexico, otherwise this state will not leave dark spots in the memory of tourists and will welcome them for a bright holiday. So the main attractions in mexico— what are they?
The best places in Mexico
1. Tulum
insanely picturesque and amazing place in Mexico, located on the eastern coast of the Yucatan Peninsula - Tulum. It includes the ruins of an ancient Mayan settlement - the main attraction of the surroundings, the Indian village of Tulum Pueblo, as well as a tourist and entertainment zone located for several kilometers along the road and the Caribbean coast. On the territory of Tulum there is a lot of evidence past civilizations, which visitors can get acquainted with during the trip. The city is also famous for its beautiful hotels and beaches.
The ancient Mayan city is one of the most famous attractions in Mexico which has become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The place has incredible rich history and gives its visitors delightful emotions. Countless travelers from all over the world flock to Mexico every year to stroll the streets of this historic city. Here you can see relic monuments to the gods worshiped by the ancient inhabitants, learn the whole history of the city, full of many events: its occupation by the Toltecs, the uprising of the Mayan tribes and the further desolation of Chichen Itza.
3. Palace of Fine Arts in Mexico City
At the beginning of the last century, the Palace of Fine Arts was erected in the capital of Mexico, which later became one of the symbols of Mexico City. The palace is famous for its opera and ballet performances, in addition, it amazes visitors with the magnificence of its interior decoration, the luxury of which is displayed even in the smallest details of the interior. The best architects and artists worked to create this beautiful palace. For lovers of museum exhibitions, the Palace of Fine Arts offers to visit two expositions located in this building.
In the center of the Mexican capital, there is a majestic religious landmark - the Cathedral. The history of the temple has been going on since 1573, in Mexico City there is no catholic church, which would be older than the Cathedral. Everyone is allowed to visit the temple without exception, regardless of religion. However, when visiting the Cathedral, it is necessary to observe decency in behavior (elementary silence and calmness) and a dress code - no beach and open clothing. Otherwise, visitors are not limited to frames.
Another of the best attractions in Mexico, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Monte Alban. White Mountain - this is the translation of the name of this beautiful archaeological complex, which arose about 2500 years ago. This is one of the few places in the world where tourists are given the opportunity to visit the excavations of an old civilization. Monte Alban has several platforms, excavations on each of which are modern world buildings and monuments centuries of history. At the exit there are souvenir shops and bookstores where you can buy memorabilia.
6. Pyramids of Teotihuacan
There are only a few places in the world that can be called a museum under open sky, And Old city Teotihuacan (which means "the place where the gods are born") definitely refers to them. It is located fifty kilometers from the capital of Mexico. In the heart of Teotihuacan is the main attraction - the Citadel, which in essence is a whole complex of pyramids of palaces and platforms. The Pyramid of the Feathered Serpent was erected in honor of the ancient deity of the same name or Quetzcoatl. Also, the main buildings include the beautiful pyramids of the Moon and the Sun, which are located at different ends of the "road of the dead." This prominent place worth seeing with your own eyes, because words are powerless here.
7. Archaeological zone Ek-Balam on the Yucatan Peninsula
Mexican sights are very unusual and unique, and the evidence for this is the archaeological zones where cities, buildings or other ancient monuments have been preserved. There are several such interesting places in Mexico, but Ek Balam is unique, if not the largest. This is the only area where samples of ancient art - plaster carvings - have been preserved. In such a peculiar way, the Mayan tribes decorated their buildings. It is Ek-Balam that attracts a huge congestion of tourists and scientists from all over the world who want to see the latest examples of the handiwork of the ancient inhabitants. Also at the entrance to archaeological park there are souvenir shops.
8 El Meco Archaeological Zone
A popular area to visit in Mexico is the archaeological area of El Meco. Almost 2000 years ago, a fishing village stood on its territory, which eventually grew into a more substantial city. Only fourteen buildings have survived to this day. One of them is very curious - this is the only pyramid in the area, located on the highest hill. Scientists are interested in the purpose for which this, albeit small, pyramid was erected. Tourists love this place also because here you can hide in the shade of dense trees that grow in the area, and in the heat this is a significant plus.
9. Interactive aquarium in Cancun
The Interactive Aquarium is a famous landmark of Mexico in Cancun, where visitors can personally participate in animal shows. Here you can swim with various inhabitants of the underwater kingdom, including dolphins, sea lions and even sharks. The main specialization of this aquarium is leisure and direct participation in entertainment programs designed for both adults and children. Also here you can see all the "locals" in the immediate vicinity.
10. Chiapas
One of the richest parts of Mexico in terms of places of interest is the state of Chiapas. To enumerate all the diversity of local cultural and natural wealth is an almost impossible task. This Mexican state will delight its visitors with the beauty of national natural parks, and will amaze with the preserved settlements of ancient peoples, and will open the doors to modern museums. Those who want to taste the rest in Mexico from different angles should definitely visit the state of Chiapas - a universal tourist destination.
Not only archaeological, but also natural attractions of Mexico can amaze with their beauty. First of all, it is worth highlighting national park Copper Canyon, which is a treasure trove of beautiful places natural origin. It is in this park that the highest Mexican waterfalls are located. Climbers from all over the world come to conquer the local heights. In the Copper Canyon there is even one of the settlements of the ancient Indians. The nature here is majestic and picturesque, and the emotions received from visiting are beyond any description.
12. Underground river Sak-Aktun in Tulum
The underground world of Sac Actun in Tulum is recognized as one of the most incredible places in all of Mexico, attracting a huge number of visitors every year. The length of the "cave kingdom" exceeds the mark of 300 kilometers, and almost all of them are flooded by an underground river. To the surprise of many tourists, the water here is crystal clear. Excursions to Sac Actun are the most sought after in Mexico. Travelers are invited to descend into some caves that are not completely flooded with water, as well as take an underwater journey along the underground river.
Isla Mujeres is one of the most picturesque and incredibly interesting islands in the Caribbean. This small island of Mexico manages to combine dense tropical jungles, preserved buildings and sculptures of the Mayan Indians, magnificent natural beaches that are considered the best in the Caribbean, and chic hotels that provide tourists unforgettable vacation. And according to an old legend, in the pyramid, which was erected on the island in honor of the goddess of the moon, untold riches are stored, but to this day no one has found them.
14. Cenote Ik-Kil
Cenote Ik-Kil is an amazing natural attraction in Mexico, located on the Yucatan Peninsula. This is a natural well formed as a result of the collapse of the cave vault. Total depth the cenote is 50 meters, half of which is filled with water. The cenote was used by the inhabitants of the ancient tribes as a source of fresh water, and they also believed that this was the gate to the otherworldly kingdom. Today, the well is equipped with a staircase leading to the reservoir, and tourists visiting the cenote are allowed to swim here.
15. Xcaret Park
A delightful place known throughout Mexico and caribbean coast, is Park Xcaret. Its uniqueness lies in the fact that, along with many entertainment attractions created by man, it is home to a large number of representatives of the animal world, and in conditions close to natural. Pakr Shkaret invites its visitors to visit the local aquarium, the turtle farm, or even swim along the underground river. Tourists here expect quite a few entertainments that amaze the imagination.
The exposition of the Mexican National Anthropological Museum is dedicated to the origin and history of ancient pre-Hispanic civilizations. Among the exhibits of the museum are a stone on which thousands of people were sacrificed, the treasures of the tomb of the great king Pacal, huge sculptures of Atlanteans from Tula, monuments dedicated to the gods of water and much more.
Basilica of the Blessed Virgin of Guadalupe
Every year on December 12, two million pilgrims from all states come to the capital of Mexico for two days to visit the temple of Maria de Guadalupe. According to Mexican legend, it was here, on Tepeyac Hill, that in 1531 the Virgin of Guadalupe appeared to a simple Indian, Juan Diego.
Museums of Frida Kahlo and Leon Trotsky
The blue house in the colonial area of Koyokane, where the artist lived from birth to death, accurately preserved the atmosphere created by his extravagant mistress. A few blocks away is the house-museum of Leon Trotsky, with whom Frida and her husband Diego Rivera were friends.
Zocalo and Templo Mayor
Constitution Square in Mexico City (also known unofficially as the Zocalo) is one of the largest areas in the world and is located in the historic center of the city. Surrounded by the Cathedral and Presidential Palace, decorated with frescoes by the famous Mexican artist Diego Rivera. Palacio National Square is located near the ritual center of the Aztecs, where the Templo Mayor pyramid used to be, which is not only a museum, but also an archaeological site.
Teotiukan
50 km northeast of the center of Mexico City are the ruins of the most ancient city of Mesoamerica - Teotihuacan, which in the VI century was inhabited by about 200 thousand inhabitants. Then Teotihuacan was the most big city in the world and influenced the development and culture of other pre-Hispanic civilizations. The list of its attractions includes: the Pyramid of the Sun, the Pyramid of the Moon, the Street of Death, the Temple of the Feathered Serpent with an ornament in the form of huge snake heads, etc. Teotihuacan means "the place where the gods are born", or "the place of apotheosis". The cited passage from the magnificent Nahuatl text confirms the versions that existed during the time of the Conquista, that from ancient times there was a tradition that the first gods, the Sun and the Moon, were created in Teotihuacan.
Xochimilco
Xochimilco, located in the south of modern Mexico City, where floating island-gardens - chinampas - have been preserved since ancient times, are the only water channels of the pre-Spanish city of Tenochtitlan built by the Aztecs, where you can get acquainted with the main craft of this entire zone - the cultivation of flowers and plants.
Xochimilco is a quiet and peaceful area, full of rustic flavor, it is in stark contrast to the noisy neighborhoods in the central part of the city.
In the middle of the main square rises the magnificent temple of San Bernardino, part of the fortified Franciscan monastery (end of the 16th century). The facade of the church is designed in a classical style with baroque elements. Behind the altar partition are decorated with paintings and sculptures depicting saints and apostles. Others, behind the altar panels, feature magnificent colonial-era paintings by such prominent painters as Cristobal de Villalpando and Juan Correa.
Cuernavaca
It is the capital and largest city in the state of Morelos. Connects to Mexico City by rail and highway. Cuernavaca is a major Mexican tourism center. The Teopansolco pyramid with the ruins of two temples reminds of the Aztecs, the palace of Cortes (XVI century, frescoes by D. Riviera) reminds of the conquistadors. Churches of the 16th-18th centuries have been preserved. In the XX century. in the city, a majestic reinforced concrete “Monument” was erected by the architects G. Rossel and Mu de la Rosa.
puebla
Puebla Big City in Mexico, 110 km southeast of Mexico City. An important cultural, scientific and economic center of the country. Puebla is also considered the "cradle of the Mexican Baroque" in both architecture and decorative arts, and one of the five most important colonial cities in Mexico. The historical and cultural value of Puebla is one of the main reasons why it was chosen as a site world heritage UNESCO. Various architectural styles, such as baroque, classical and renaissance are represented here in more than 5000 buildings. The historic center of the city is filled with magnificent churches, monasteries and colonial-style mansions, whose facades are decorated with talavera ceramic tiles, typical of this region.
The city is also famous for its cuisine and is considered the gastronomic capital of the country. It is believed that it was here that "Mole (Mole)" - the famous Mexican hot sauce was invented.
Known as the "City of Angels" and is the capital of the state of the same name. Main attractions: Cathedral, churches and squares, Talavera craft - the tree of life (paintings on the bark with a bizarre design of onyx and marble), national parks La Malinche, Itza Popo, etc. The historical center of Puebla is listed cultural heritage humanity.
Taxco
Listed as one of the Magic Cities of Mexico. world capital silver, located in southern region, 151 km south of Mexico City. It is unique in the beauty of its architecture and is considered one of the most picturesque cities in Mexico. Main attractions: Santa Prisca Cathedral, Humboldt and Borda houses-museums, colonial art and silver, national park with sonmi and oaks, etc. Silver City, located three hours from the capital of Mexico, is widely known as the "souvenir city". That's how it's advertised. And indeed, as a memorable gift, you take away from Taxco in the soul of its beauty, and in addition, a creation made of silver is a must. No one remembers when silversmithing was born here. At least in the 16th century, when the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Mexico, this craft was already practiced in Taxco. And no wonder: generous deposits of silver were discovered in the vicinity of the city. ABOUT natural resources this area was known as early as the time of the Aztec ruler Moctezuma. There were legends that the local Indians paid tribute to the ruler with gold bars. When these rumors reached the conqueror of the Aztec state, Hernan Cortes, he urgently sent his soldiers there. The Spanish conquistadors did not find gold, but brought Cortes no less good news about the rich deposits of silver. Then, by order of the leader of the Spaniards, the first mine, called the Royal, was built here. The current Taxco grew up around her.
Tepoztlan
A town in the Mexican state of Morelos. The mythical homeland of the god Quetzalcoatl, a mystical place with amazing energy, beautiful scenery. Tepoztlán is one of the most popular weekend getaways for Mexico City residents. From the capital, it’s only an hour’s drive here (from the east or southern bus station). There is even a clear linguistic division: the indigenous aborigines who were born and raised here are called “tepostekos”, and those who rent housing (poets, artists and psychics tend to live here for a long time) are called “tepostisos” There is something to see in Tepoztlan. For starters, an Augustinian monastery (1560-88) with frescoes and an archaeological museum. During the revolutionary extravaganza of Zapata (1910-19), the monastery was used by the rebels as a fortress, and there are traces of shelling. The arch leading to the monastery from the side of the market, according to the Mexican tradition, is painted with a small-town patriotic mural (Aztecs, conquista and modernity with local specifics). Mu-ral, by the way, is updated every year. Then it is worth climbing the hill closest to the village, to the temple of the god pulque Tepoztecatl. It was built in the XIII-XIV centuries in the form of a pyramid on a platform 10 meters high.
Tula
Tula - ancient capital Toltecs, one of the main pre-Columbian cultures of Mesoamerica. It is often identified with the mythical city of Tollan. Archaeological complex, the ancient capital of the Toltecs, located 65 kilometers northwest of Mexico City. The most famous of the surviving structures is the Pyramid of the Morning Star, on the platform of which stands a group of five-meter stone warriors who once carried the roof of the temple.
Palenque
Perhaps the most beautiful archaeological area, which is part of national park in the north-east Mexican state Chiapas - the political and cultural center of the Maya in the III-VIII centuries. Palenque at first sight captivates with an unusually beautiful location. A few meters behind the pyramids and the extraordinary palace rise mountains covered with dense greenery. The virgin forest declares itself everywhere. The back walls of the Palenque buildings rest against the Tumbol Mountains (one of the spurs of the Central American Cordilleras). From the side of the facades of buildings, from the doors of palaces and sanctuaries, there is a magnificent view of the endless green carpet - the sea of impenetrable forests, which stretches 130 kilometers and ends at the real sea - the Gulf of Mexico. In the official part of the city there are many buildings that had great importance in the social and religious life of the Maya Indians: the Pyramid (or temple) of the Inscriptions, the palace, the Temple of the Sun, the Temple of the Count, the Temple of the Skulls, the Temple of the Cross, the Temple of the Prosperous Cross, the field for the ball game.
Uxmal- the pearl of the architecture of the Mayan civilization. The name of this city sounded before as Osh-Mal, "built three times." The time of foundation and its ancient history are still unknown. Uxmal is one of the cultural and political centers of the ancient Maya in the Yucatan Peninsula. The main attraction of Uxmal is the Wizard's Pyramid, which rises 37 meters above the ground and is crowned with a temple.
According to legend, the pyramid was built in one night by a powerful dwarf wizard, who after that became the ruler of Uxmal. Behind the Temple of the Wizard (to the west of it) on a hill is the so-called Convent. All buildings are made up of small rooms, total number which is equal to 74. When the first Europeans (and these were Spanish monks) saw these rooms, they mistook them for cells, and the buildings themselves for a monastery. Hence the name - the Convent. Another attraction is the Turtle House, which got its name from the ornament along the top of the building, made in the form of turtles.
Chichen Itza
Political and Cultural Center Maya in the north of the Yucatan Peninsula. holy city Itza people, located 120 km. East of the city of Merida, the capital of the Yucatan. “The well of the Itza tribe” is the name translated from the language of the locals. The city was founded presumably in the VI-VII centuries AD. e. The choice of location was influenced by two large, never-drying springs drinking water. At the end of the 10th century, Chichen Itza was captured by the Toltecs and turned it into their capital. Main attractions: Despite the age stone structures many of them have been preserved in very good condition. The special pride of Chichen Itza is the pyramid of Kukulkan, on top of which there is an ancient temple. Four steep stairs lead to it, ninety-one steps in each. 
No less interesting is the Temple of Warriors. It is based on a four-level pyramid, and in front of it is a platform with four rows of stone columns depicting Toltec warriors. Sacrificial platforms and the "Well of Death" testify to the fact that in Chichen Itza it was common to sacrifice people. Chichen Itza is recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage site.
The most important and popular attractions of the Riviera Maya - photo reports and video reviews, descriptions and reviews, opening hours and prices.
Don't forget to define for yourself optimal time years in the Riviera Maya for sightseeing and get the most out of your viewing experience.
Riviera Maya - typical mexican resort town. However, this does not mean at all that there are no attractions or other places that would be interesting to visit. Attractions Riviera Maya is not only amazingly beautiful nature, but also architecture, the beauty of which is also difficult to overestimate.
Attraction number one is Shkaret Park. This place combines all the subtleties of the culture and nature of the mysterious Mexico. You can spend a whole day here exploring amazing beauty local history and traditions.
Not less than interesting place is located relatively close to the park mentioned above, and also represents protected area– Xel Kha Park was previously considered the most favorite place for recreation of the ancient rulers of the Maya. Here you can see a lot of interesting and unusual things: caves and salt lakes located in them, underground rivers and bays - all this appears before the eyes of numerous tourists who come here from year to year.
The Riviera Maya is also famous for its orchid park and crowded fishing piers. There are always a lot of fishermen here, as well as flamingos, which attract even more curious tourists to the coast. In the city and its environs, in fact, quite a lot of attractions. It is very difficult to visit everything, but you can always try to have time to see everything.
Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza- the very attraction that it would be a crime not to visit during a trip to Mexico. This old City, once the spiritual center of the Mayan civilization, and today attracts pilgrims and tourists from all over the world.
Tulum
Tulum is the very attraction that you just need to visit. This ancient city is a great combination of modern and old: here you can find ancient Mayan pyramids, and the beach, and shopping centers.
Shel Ha
Xel Ha is one of the most interesting and ancient sights of Mexico. Even the kings and leaders of the Maya empire loved to spend time in this reserved park. The park has not lost its popularity over the centuries: here and today you can meet many tourists coming from all over the world.
Ek Balam
Ek Balam, or the city of the black jaguar, is a unique archaeological park located in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula in northern Mexico. Here, despite the efforts of time, a lot of valuable buildings and sculptures have been preserved, attracting tourists from all over the world to the city.
museum aquarium
Museum Aquarium, located in the heart of Cancun, not so far from the Riviera Maya, is an aquarium unique in size and function. Interactive and large-scale, it attracts tourists from all cities of the world.
turtle farm
The turtle farm is not the most common attraction in Mexico. Located on picturesque island Women, she fits in perfectly surrounding nature and atmosphere. Live exhibits presented on the farm leave no one indifferent.
