MAYAN TREASURES
The Littlest Caracol
This neglected ruin could be more important than it appears
Scattered throughout North, Central, and South America, the art, artifacts, and ruins left behind by Precolombian natives have fascinated me for decades. So many mysteries. How did they build them? And why? To worship the gods? To study astronomy? For human sacrifice? To stymie future archaeologists?
Some years ago I was able to cross off one major bucket list item with a visit to Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, the ancient home of the Maya. It was winter in Northern Virginia, a perfect time to escape to a tropical beach, pig out on fish tacos, and drink too many margaritas.
Maya Country
When we arrived on the tiny island of Cozumel, situated next door to the more popular — and overly touristy — Cancun, we made a plan. We were within striking distance of Chichén Itzá and Tulum, the major sites we wanted to visit the next day, both of which were located on the mainland, requiring a ferry ride across the wild waters of the strait.
To spend only half a day at Chichén Itzá is like eating half a scoop of ice cream. It’s an amazing experience, but just leaves you wanting more. Much more. My particular fascination that morning centered around the great…
