Caves

A Subterranean Paradise. Under the surface of Yucatán extends a veritable maze of spectacular intertwined tunnels. The subterranean caves were sacred places for the Maya and are truly impressive. The abundant natural rock formations lure the visitor into a new world of adventure, rocky beauty and mystery.

Among the most fascinating sites are the following:

Loltún

The name in Maya means “Flower of Stone”. Evidence has been found of human settlements here from 400 to 7,000 years ago. The trail begins at the entrance to Nahkab or the beehive, where the famous bas-relief known as the “Warrior of Loltún” is found. The warrior, believed to be the god of the underworld, appears to be emerging from the caves. At the entrance, stone blocks used for grinding vegetable grains attest to the activity which took place sheltered within its walls. Visitors can admire many other formations with imaginative names: “The Cathedral,” “The Gallery of the Canyon,” “The Ear of Corn,” “The Stalactite Room,” etc. There's also the “Room of the Musical Columns” where huge stalactites produce different tones when they are struck.

Another interesting attraction is the rock painting: one mural shows hands in negatives; another has more elaborately painted faces, animals and staggered motifs.

Various archaeological finds have been made in the various caves, galleries, and chambers almost 60 meters below the surface and stretching more than 700 meters in length, including ceramics, stone artifacts, marine shells and petroglyphs corresponding to the different stages of Maya evolution. Bones and other remains of now extinct mammoth, bison and cat species have also been discovered here. The cave has been specially prepared so that a tour covering about 1.000 meters can safely be taken along illuminated pathways. There is guide service. Restaurants around the exit delight the visitor with regional cooking.

Loltún is located 110 km southwest of Mérida. The caves are open every day from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Calcehtok

Also known as X-Pukil, Calcehtok has a complex system of interior tunnels. Stalagmites, stalactites and other limestone formations are plentiful in the great vaults over 30 meters high. There's an abundance of pre-Hispanic material here, including still-intact pots. Many rooms are still unexplored. The system extends underground for some 5 km, and has produced findings such as Mayan ceramics, human and deer bones, broken dishes, pans, grinding stones, arrowheads and Hal tunes, which the Maya built to container water.

A stone chiseled into the form of a stag's head was found here during an attempt to build a well close to the caves, and in recognition of this, the place was named Calcehtok, meaning “throat of the flint-stone stag.”These caves also offer rappelling with guides and special equipment. It's an excellent choice for those who love cave diving.

Calcehtok is situated 32 km northwest of Muna along the state highway.

Balankanché

This cavern functioned as a ceremonial center for the ancient Mayas. At the entrance is the throne of Balam, a kind of altar, which gives its name to the caves.

In the center of the vault an imposing stalactite reaching down to the floor resembles a giant Ceiba tree. It is called “the sacred Ceiba which grows in the middle of the earth.” At its base, can be seen ceremonial pieces left by Mayan priests over 1.000 years ago. In the next chamber Mayan offerings of conches and jade lie scattered in a semi-dry lagoon.

A variety of objects has been found throughout the grotto: incense burners, metals, miniature plates, jewelery and ceramic offerings, figures of the rain god, Chaac, jade jaguars and impressions of hands in the walls. Here the light and sound show relating history can be enjoyed. There's also a museum containing photographs and documents which recount the sacred rituals once practiced in the caves.

Balankanche lies 6 km from Chichén Itzá. Visiting times are from Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. to 4 p.m., Sunday from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Some caves are easy to access with huge vaulted ceilings; other narrower passages and mysterious alcoves Make your pulse race. Interesting legends explain the origin of the caverns or describe the fantastic creatures that live there.

Back to index >> Next topic >>

Tell a friend