Quintana Roo, Mexico — Several archaeological sites in Quintana Roo are ideal for witnessing the summer solstice, an astronomical event marking the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere. The solstice occurs when the Sun reaches its highest or lowest point in the sky at noon, signaling the start of summer in the north and winter in the south.
A Celestial Phenomenon with Cultural Significance
A university researcher explained that the summer solstice brings extended daylight hours to the Northern Hemisphere. This event, along with equinoxes, has historically influenced seasons, harvests, and survival, leading many cultures worldwide to celebrate it.
Top Archaeological Sites to Observe the Solstice
Quintana Roo boasts numerous historically significant locations perfect for experiencing the solstice. Below are three key sites:
Tulum
Perched atop a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Tulum is one of Quintana Roo’s most iconic archaeological sites. The ancient Maya city, whose name translates to "wall," was a fortified port surrounded by a massive barrier on three sides. It served as a major trade hub for goods such as jade, obsidiana, and textiles along the Maya maritime route.
Cobá
Located 45 kilometers northwest of Tulum, Cobá was once one of the largest and most powerful Maya cities on the Yucatán Peninsula. The site is renowned for its extensive network of sacbéob, elevated ancient roads connecting Maya settlements. One of the longest known sacbés stretches over 100 kilometers from Cobá to Yaxuná in Yucatán.
San Gervasio
This archaeological complex was a pilgrimage center where the Maya worshipped the goddess Ixchel. Beyond its religious importance, San Gervasio played a vital role in regional trade and political development. The site features six architectural groups and independent temples linked by white pathways called sacbés, offering insights into Maya religious, administrative, and daily life.
El Meco
The original name of El Meco remains unknown, though 16th-century chroniclers suggest it may have been called Belma. The site’s modern name derives from a 19th-century local resident nicknamed "El Meco" due to a lower limb deformity. He maintained a small beach ranch near the ruins, adjacent to the current lighthouse.
The summer solstice provides a unique opportunity to explore these ancient sites while connecting with the astronomical and cultural heritage of the Maya civilization.
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