San
Gervasio Mayan Ruins
This is the number 1 archaeological site on Cozumel,
and the most significant Mayan site on the island, because it was a
sacred site dedicated to the goddess Ixchel or the goddess of
fertility, as well as becoming a strategic site or commerce and
politics in the region. It has a long history that began about 100
BC and would continue all the way to about the 16th century or until
the arrival of the Spanish conquerors. It is located on the biggest
island of the Mexican Caribbean, and was still a functioning
religious site when the Spaniards arrived. Situated in the heart of
the island, there is a lush green tropical jungle that encompasses
it, filled with colorful iguanas and beautiful flowers and foliage,
it is a mysterious magical place, dedicated to Ixchel, which means
she of the rainbows, and believed to be the deity of midwifery,
medicine, weaving and fertility, with many women that lived on the
mainland coming here to her shrine during their lifetimes. A
magnificent arch protects the altar that sits on a sacbe or ancient
road, that heads into the ceremonial center, with numerous statues
of Ixchel discovered here, and still being uncovered at the 40 plus
temples left on the island. The archaeological site here hasn't been
restored or refurbished, but there are many structures and a
wonderful natural setting that makes it such an inviting
destination. One of the most intriguing structures is called the
Temple of the Hands, that house small red handprints of unknown
importance or origin that have been painted on the walls, than had
made many mothers consider one of the first day care centers of
modern time.
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