Cozumel, Quintana Roo — This past weekend, more than 360 rowers crossed the open sea in honor of the goddess Ixchel during the Sacred Journey “Conjuro al Cielo,” an ancestral ceremony that reaffirms the cultural identity of Quintana Roo. The welcoming event, held at Chankanaab Natural Park, brought together participants and spectators in a celebration of Mayan heritage.
A 33-Kilometer Tribute to Ixchel
The journey spanned over 33 kilometers, beginning in Xcaret and concluding in Cozumel. Rowers, driven by faith, history, and community spirit, paid homage to Ixchel, the Mayan goddess of the moon, love, and fertility. The event served as both a revival of ancient traditions and a bridge between past and present.
FPMC and Grupo Experiencias Xcaret Reinforce Cultural Commitment
The Cozumel Parks and Museums Foundation (FPMC), in collaboration with Grupo Experiencias Xcaret, supported the event as part of its mission to preserve intangible heritage and promote cultural tourism. Juanita Alonso Marrufo, FPMC’s general director, emphasized the importance of tradition, stating, “The soul of our people lives in their customs.” She highlighted the collaborative efforts between public and private sectors in sustaining such cultural practices.
Ceremonial Welcome and Mayan Market
The arrival of the rowers was met with an emotional reception. Hundreds gathered on the shore, applauding the participants as a Mayan ceremony—filled with sacred symbols, dances, and chants—created a mystical atmosphere. Concurrently, the Mayan Market was inaugurated, featuring artisans from José María Morelos and Cozumel who showcased traditional crafts, textiles, and local flavors, blending ancestral history with contemporary life.
Cozumel: A Crossroads of Generations
The Sacred Journey not only attracted visitors but also served as an act of cultural devotion, a ritual of resilience, and a celebration of identity. Cozumel reaffirmed its role as a sacred Mayan island and a living territory of tradition. Government officials from all levels and business representatives attended, acknowledging the event’s cultural and spiritual significance and renewing their commitment to preserving such customs.
Historical Significance and Revival
The Travesía Sagrada Maya, or Sacred Mayan Journey, is a modern reenactment of a pilgrimage that dates back over 500 years. Ancient Maya pilgrims would paddle canoes from the mainland port of Polé (present-day Xcaret) to the island of Cozumel to worship the goddess Ixchel at her sanctuary. This ritual was integral to the spiritual and daily life of the Maya civilization, reinforcing social and religious ties among communities.
Revived in 2007 by Grupo Xcaret, the modern Travesía Sagrada Maya aims to preserve and honor this ancestral tradition. Participants, known as “canoeros,” undergo six months of rigorous physical and mental training to prepare for the challenging sea voyage. The event not only celebrates Mayan heritage but also fosters community engagement and cultural pride.
The 2025 Crossing: A Testament to Cultural Resilience
The 2025 edition of the Sacred Mayan Journey, held on May 16 and 17, saw over 360 canoeists embark on the 62.6-kilometer voyage from Xcaret to Cozumel. The journey began with a purification ceremony at dawn, followed by the departure of the canoes across the Caribbean Sea. Upon arrival at Chankanaab Park, participants were welcomed with traditional dances and rituals honoring Ixchel. The following day, the canoeists made the return journey to Xcaret, bringing back the blessings and messages from the goddess to their communities.
This year’s event highlighted the enduring spirit of the Maya culture and the dedication of those who strive to keep it alive. The Sacred Mayan Journey continues to be a powerful symbol of cultural resilience and a bridge connecting the past with the present.
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