Summary
Discovering the Yucatan Peninsula’s Rich Maya Heritage
Six million people still identify as Maya. It’s time we all learn more about them. Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula is famed for its stunning beaches, where soft, golden sand meets crystal-clear waters. However, this region has much more to offer, especially when considering the dynamic and storied history of the Maya people.
“The Maya had been around for thousands and thousands of years before the Europeans showed up,” said Carlos Rosado van der Gracht, a tour guide, Ph.D. candidate, and editor of Yucatán Magazine. He further explained that the Maya “built a great many magnificent cities, developed a sophisticated civilization, their own mathematics, medicine, and astronomy—by any measure, they constitute one of the world’s great civilizations.”
The Evolving Culture of the Maya
Although the culture in the region has significantly evolved over the last few centuries, the Maya are a vital part of its past and contemporary heritage. “The culture is changing every day,” stated Dante Garcia, an underwater archaeologist working with Auberge Resorts, where he provides exclusive experiences at Etéreo in Riviera Maya. Upon his arrival in the region two decades ago, fewer people openly discussed their Maya heritage, particularly in larger cities. “But if you visit the villages, I’m fortunate to encounter places where they proclaim, ‘I’m Maya, and I’m very, very proud.’ That’s something truly wonderful to appreciate today.”
Travel Opportunities to Honor Maya Culture
Experts agree that nearly every element travelers experience in the Yucatan—from traditional food to awe-inspiring architecture and attractions—has been shaped by the Maya, both historically and presently. Contrary to conspiracy theories, the Maya did not vanish; in fact, there are still over six million Maya living today. Therefore, it is simple to find authentic experiences that honor this rich culture during your travels.
“There’s archaeology everywhere. From my office, just 50 meters away, [there are] Maya structures,” Rosado pointed out. “There are over 50 large archaeological sites within the city boundaries alone.”
If you’re eager to delve deeper into the history of the Maya in the Yucatan, tune in to Garcia, Rosado, and host Alisha Prakash, along with Chef Alejandra Kauachi, the founder of Mexico Lindo Cooking, as they explore the region on the Lost Cultures: Living Legacies podcast. It’s accessible on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and many more platforms where podcasts are available.
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Editor’s Note: Please be mindful that this transcript does not go through our standard editorial process and may contain inaccuracies and grammatical errors.
