El Rey archaeological site, Mayan archaeological site in Cancun, Mexico.
El Rey is an archaeological site with around 50 stone structures laid out along two white roads. The buildings include ceremonial platforms, open courtyards, and a temple with two tall columns that forms the heart of the complex.
The settlement was founded around 300 BCE and grew gradually into a significant port. Between 1200 and 1500 CE, it reached its peak as a major trading center before the Maya abandoned it.
This served as a major trading hub where goods from across the Caribbean arrived and were exchanged. Daily life revolved around commerce, with merchants and residents moving through the site as part of a wider network connecting coastal settlements.
The site sits right on a beach and is easily accessible via level walkways connecting the ruins. Bring sun protection since shade is sparse, and wear comfortable shoes to explore the grounds without strain.
Excavations beneath residential platforms uncovered over 500 burials, some containing valuable items like copper tools and shell ornaments. These discoveries reveal how important this place was to its community and the prosperity some residents enjoyed.
Location: Quintana Roo
GPS coordinates: 21.06083,-86.78111
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:40
Quintana Roo is a coastal region where remote beaches, Mayan archaeological sites, and natural wonders come together. The area is known for its cenotes – natural freshwater sinkholes, some with underwater caves and clear water for swimming and diving. You will find ancient ruins hidden in the jungle, small islands with diverse wildlife, and beaches where you can experience local Mexican culture away from crowds. Sites like Muyil, Kohunlich, and San Gervasio reveal the history of the Maya people, while cenotes such as Sac Actun, Casa Cenote, and Angelita expose an underwater world beneath the surface. Lagoons like Kaan Luum and Bacalar invite exploration of mangrove forests and aquatic life. Beaches such as Xcacel, Paamul, and Xpu-ha offer tranquility far from major tourist centers, while small islands like Isla Contoy shelter seabirds and marine habitats. Together, these places form a destination where history, nature, and local life intertwine.
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57 kmVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
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