Xpujil Archeological Zone
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+52 (555) 150-2081NileGuide Expert tip:
Admission: MX$31/US$3.10 Payment: Cash Parking: Free, although a little boy may ask you for a few pesos to "guard" your car Services: Sale of publications and reproductions, restrooms, parking, security guards, satellite phone Additional information: Wear light clothes and a hat. Use mosquito repellent. Bring and drink plenty of water.Description:
Some of the Yucatán Peninsula's most interesting Mayan ruins lie in southern Campeche state – Xpujil, Becán, and Chicanna – all close to the modern town named Xpujil (also spelled Xpuhil). The Xpujil Archeological Zone was occupied continuously from 400 BC to 1200 AD, an incredibly long period of time considering that the heyday of the Mayan city-states ran from 600-900 AD. In the Mayan language, Xpujil means 'cat's tail,' a reference to a plant that grows at the nearby watering hole. The site is famous for its Structure 1, a not very glamorous name used more commonly than the evocative Tree Tower Edifice. The soaring temple is the only one in the Rio Bec style (and region) to be crowned by three towers, with staircases that are too steep to climb, perhaps added to intimidate citizens watching the religious ceremonies. Hotels near Xpujil include Rio Bec Dreams and Chicanna EcoVillage Resort.