Must See Cancun

• Tulum - When the Spanish first set eyes on Talum in 1518 they compared its beauty to Seville, Spain. Although Talum is far surpassed architecturally by Chichen Itza, and many other Mexican ruins, the sight of Talum surrounded by the azure waters of the Caribbean and set upon a vast stretch of green cliffs no doubt bewildered the Spanish.

Talum offers exploration of three main structures:

• El Castillo – perched on the cliff's edge is a tower lined with steps. Visitors can climb the tower and explore the temple decorated with plumed serpents. Then enjoy a stunning vista of El Castillo, the beach below.



• Temple of the Frescoes – showcases a series of murals depicting Mayan life



• Temple of the Descending God - The Temple features the stucco relief of an upside-down winged god referred to as the diving god. He was the bringer of honey to the Mayan people.

The Pyramid of Kukulcan at Chichen Itza – Constructed over 1000 years ago this pyramid of secrets is understood only by the spring and autumn equinoxes. Mysticism surrounds the construction of the Pyramid of Kukulcan, but archaeologists believe that its purpose is to serve as a calendar. Three-hundred and 64 stairs line the northern side of the pyramid and the shadow cast by the sun during each equinox casts the image of a long snake slithering down the pyramid. The Pyramid of Kukulcan opens its gate to visitors daily at 8:30 am when you will have the structure and its mysteries pretty much to yourself, but enjoy it while you can because by 10:30 am it will be overcrowded with sightseers. Many other ruins make up Chichen Itza including the Temple of Warriors, a magnificent statue surrounded by stone pillars, and the hidden pyramid cramped within Kukulcan's interior.

Try other regional Must See pages and don't forget to check out the Top 5 Things to See in Mexico section: Acapulco, Cozumel, Cabo San Lucas, Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Puerto Vallarta.