Ancient Tulum.

If you stop and scan the horizon from within this pre-Columbian walled city it’s easy to see why the Mayans picked this particular site for their regional trade hub. On one side, steep cliffs fall dramatically to a protected beach on the Caribbean Sea. On all others, the terrain slopes gently away for many kilometers making Tulum the highest point in the area and the perfect lookout post for Mayan sentries.

While they weren’t taking in the view or defending the city from invaders, the Mayans did a brisk business in the valuable, volcanic glass — Obsidian.

Today Tulum has some of the most well-preserved archaeological buildings in Mexico, among them the impressive Temple of the Descending God. The entire site is walkable, the beach is open and the natural setting is spectacular. So, bring your swimming gear and your camera.

More stories at aluxmagazine.com.