Cancun: Mayan heritage and natural marvels.

Story by Sasha Trevance | Contributing Writer

Bikinis and beach parties may be what comes to mind when you think of Cancun, but there’s much more to the Mayan Riviera hotspot than its stereotype. Rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural scenery, Cancun is actually a fantastic cultural destination. This stunning seaside city has an unexpected depth to it and the wise, ancient beauty both above and below the waterline may just surprise you.

For those wanting a bit more from their Cancun holidays than its beautiful beaches and famous nightlife, here are some must-see cultural attractions to add to the itinerary.

Chichen Itza

Built by the powerful Mayan Civilization around 600 AD, this pre-Columbian city is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. It attracts over a million tourists every year and is easily accessible by coach from Cancun.

El Castillo, a grand step pyramid also known as the Temple of Kukulkan, was announced as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. If your holiday happens to coincide with the spring or autumn equinox, you’ll also get to witness the incredible serpent of light crawl down its giant steps. Just make sure you rise early; the site gets incredibly busy around the middle of the day.

Museo Maya de Cancun

Before visiting Mayan ruins like Chichen Itza, it pays to spend some time in the Museo Maya de Cancun first. Its many exhibits paint a vivid picture of daily life for the Mayans. It’s filled with an incredible number of ancient Mayan artefacts in unbelievably pristine condition.

The Museo Maya de Cancun building itself is a work of modern art. Be sure to walk around its gardens during your visit and check out the San Miguelito archaeological site next door as part of your museum ticket.

MUSA Underwater Museum

In addition to the region’s fascinating history, Cancun is also home to some incredible natural landscapes. Most notably, its underwater ecosystem is home to many thriving populations of colorful sea life, including hawksbill sea turtles and manatees. There’s no better place to witness this captivating world beneath the water than at Museo Subacuatico de Arte (MUSA), Cancun’s underwater sculpture museum.

Situated near the gorgeous Manchones Reef, MUSA features more than 400 clay sculptures – including a man watching TV from his sofa, a man on his bike and a life-size VW beetle. Take a guided scuba diving or snorkelling tour of MUSA and watch as schools of dazzling fish glide between these unique works of art and corals sprout from the hand-carved stone.

 Plaza de Toros

If you prefer your cultural attractions above land, head to Cancun’s bullfighting ring, Plaza de Toros, to experience one of the region’s beloved traditions. Watch as colorfully costumed bullfighters put on a captivating display of bravery and showmanship.

Keep in mind, however, that the bull meets a somewhat violent end. Though it is a popular attraction, it’s not for the squeamish. If you’re up for a man vs. beast showdown, the bullfights typically happen on Wednesday nights and tickets can be bought on the day.

Of course, the best way to forget the Cancun stereotype is to visit it yourself. The attractions listed above are only some of the many impressive cultural attractions available throughout the Riviera; if you have some spare time it’s worth a trip down to Tulum, to see the remains of this former Mayan stronghold with a dramatic coastal setting. If you can manage to pry yourself off of Cancun’s gorgeous beaches for a day or two (which may be easier said than done), you won’t regret it.

Image credits (used under Flickr creative commons):

Maskara (Chichen-Itza, Mexico) by Shubert Ciencia

can8602_41, Chichen Itza, Maya Ruins, Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico by Jim G

museo_acuatico_cancun by Margarita Cabrera

El ruedo de la monumental by Saguayo