When Did Tulum Get Popular?

If you're looking for atropical paradise that's both beautiful and culturally rich, Tulum is the placeto be. This picturesque town located on the southern tip of the Riviera Mayahas been gaining popularity in recent years, attracting visitors from all overthe world. But to truly appreciate Tulum's present, we need to understand itspast.

Tulum's Ancient Past

Tulum is a place thatexudes history and ancient beauty. It is a destination that has a rich andintriguing past, deeply rooted in the Mayan culture. The ancient city of Tulumwas once known as Zama, which means dawn in the Mayan language. The city wasfortified and used as a center of trade between the 13th and 15th centuries.

The Mayan civilizationwas known for its architectural and mathematical prowess, and Tulum is noexception. The well-preserved limestone outcrops that were once home to theancient Mayan civilization are still standing today, making it a populartourist attraction.

The ruins of Tulum arelocated on a bluff overlooking the Caribbean Sea. They were once used as aceremonial site, as well as a center for trade and commerce. The structures arean impressive example of the Mayan's intricate architectural skills. The Mayancivilization was known for building structures without using mortar, and theTulum ruins are no exception. They were constructed with large blocks oflimestone, which were precisely cut to fit together.

The Tulum ruins are hometo several notable structures, including the Temple of the Frescoes and theCastillo. The Temple of the Frescoes is a two-story structure that once houseda mural depicting the Mayan calendar. The Castillo is a towering structure thatserved as a watchtower for incoming ships, as well as a temple for worship.

One theory suggests thatthe population of Tulum sought protection from invaders, which is why the citywas fortified. The walls that surround the city are up to 16 feet high and 26feet thick, making them an impressive feat of engineering.

Visiting the Tulum ruinsis an experience like no other. It is a chance to step back in time and witnessthe intricate beauty of the Mayan civilization. As you wander through theruins, you can't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder at the sheer magnitudeof the structures.

In addition to the ruins,the stunning backdrop of the Caribbean Sea makes for a breathtaking view.Visitors can take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or lounge on the whitesandy beaches.

Overall, Tulum's ancientpast is a significant part of its allure. The city's rich history is evident inevery structure and limestone outcrop. Whether you're a history buff or justlooking for a unique travel experience, a visit to the Tulum ruins is anabsolute must.

Tulum's Recent History

Tulum's recent history isa story of transformation and growth. In 1973, the Mexican governmentdesignated 25,000 acres around Tulum as an ejido, or collective farm, with thegoal of providing land to impoverished peasants and encouraging settlement in depopulatedareas. At the time, Tulum was an isolated and impoverished region, with apopulation of only 92 people in 1960.

The ejido system is aunique form of land ownership in Mexico, which grants collective ownership ofland to a group of people. The system was first introduced in Mexico in theearly 20th century, as a way to address the problem of landlessness and promoterural development. The ejido system was seen as a way to redistribute land fromlarge landowners to small farmers, and to promote agricultural productivity.

Under the ejido system,the land around Tulum was divided between about 20 families, who were grantedcollective ownership of the land. The families were not allowed to sell theland, but could lease their plots to others. This system of collectiveownership helped to prevent the concentration of land ownership in the hands ofa few wealthy individuals, and ensured that the land remained in the hands oflocal communities.

In the decades thatfollowed the introduction of the ejido system, Tulum began to experiencesignificant growth and development. The region's stunning natural beauty,pristine beaches, and rich cultural heritage began to attract visitors fromaround the world. The growth in tourism led to the development of new hotels,restaurants, and other tourist facilities, which helped to boost the localeconomy.

By 1990, Tulum'spopulation had grown to 2,000, and by 2000, it had soared to 12,000. This rapidgrowth brought its own challenges, as the local infrastructure struggled tokeep pace with the demands of the growing population. However, the governmentand local communities worked together to address these challenges, and todayTulum is a thriving tourist destination, attracting visitors from around theworld.

Despite its rapid growthand development, Tulum has managed to retain its unique charm and character.The region's rich cultural heritage is evident in its ancient Mayan ruins,which attract visitors from around the world. The stunning natural beauty ofthe region, with its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, is atestament to the region's commitment to sustainable development.

Tulum's recent history isa testament to the power of community and collaboration. Through the ejidosystem, local communities were able to take control of their own destinies, andwork together to build a better future for themselves and their families.Today, Tulum stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when peoplework together towards a common goal.

The Three Tulum

Today, Tulum can bedivided into three distinct areas: ancient Tulum, local Tulum, and boho beachTulum. Ancient Tulum is home to the ruins of Tulum, a must-see destination forhistory buffs. Local Tulum is the cheapest area, with the best street tacos anda vibrant local culture. Boho beach Tulum, on the other hand, is the stripalong the beach with vegan restaurants, trendy boutiques, and a paradise forthose who love travel blogs.

What Makes Tulum SoPopular?

Tulum, the trendy beachtown located on the southern tip of the Riviera Maya, has become one of thehottest destinations in Mexico. Its popularity has been on the rise in recentyears, attracting tourists from all over the world. So, what makes Tulum sopopular?

First and foremost, Tulumis a stunningly beautiful destination. Its pristine, soft white sand beachesand crystal-clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, andsunbathing. The town is surrounded by lush jungle and features a variety ofnatural attractions, including cenotes, underground rivers, and lagoons.

Tulum is also home tosome of the best restaurants in the region. From traditional Mexican streetfood to gourmet cuisine, Tulum's food scene has something for everyone. Thetown is known for its farm-to-table restaurants, which use locally-sourced,organic ingredients to create delicious and healthy dishes. Many of theserestaurants are located on the beach, offering stunning ocean views while youdine.

For history buffs, Tulumoffers a glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization. The town is home to thewell-preserved Tulum ruins, which date back to the 13th century. The ruins aresituated on a cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea and offer breathtaking viewsof the coastline. Visitors can explore the ancient temples, palaces, andfortresses of this once-great civilization and learn about their fascinatingculture and traditions.

But Tulum's appeal goesbeyond its natural beauty and rich history. The town has become a haven fordigital nomads, creatives, and wellness enthusiasts. Its relaxed and laid-backatmosphere, combined with its vibrant arts and culture scene, make it a perfectdestination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of modern life.Yoga classes, meditation retreats, and wellness workshops are just some of themany offerings available to visitors.

Conclusion

Tulum has come a long wayfrom its humble beginnings as a remote and impoverished town. Its growth can beattributed to the Mexican government's efforts to encourage settlement indepopulated areas, as well as the town's unique blend of cultural heritage andmodern amenities. So if you're looking for a tropical paradise that's bothbeautiful and culturally rich, Tulum is the perfect destination for you.