Why were cenotes important to the Mayans ?
Cenotes, whose name in Mayan means “sacred well” (from the Mayan words dz’onot or ts’ono’ot), were far more than simple water reserves for the Mayan civilization, which thrived in the Yucatán Peninsula between 2000 BC and 1500 AD. These unique geological formations were deeply rooted in their worldview, serving as spiritual portals to the underground […]
Stalactites and Stalagmites: Everything You Need to Know
Mysterious and fascinating, stalactites and stalagmites have adorned caves for thousands of years. Learn how to tell them apart, understand how they form, and discover where to admire these natural wonders.
When to Dive in a Cenote? The Best time
When to Dive in a Cenote? The Best Seasons to Know
What is a cenote? Origin, Formation, Mayan Significance, Types, and More
Dive into the heart of Yucatán’s mysteries with cenotes, these unique natural fresh water wells found nowhere else in the world. Born from the collapse of limestone caverns, cenotes are much more than simple natural pools: they are the result of a fascinating geological history and they were of vital importance to Maya civilizations. In this article you will discover their origin, their formation, their sacred role in Maya culture, the different types of cenotes, and what makes these natural wonders so special for travelers and diving enthusiasts.
How Cenotes Were Formed
Many people wonder how the magnificent cenotes we know today were actually formed. Thick layers of limestone, created from marine organisms, gradually accumulated over time and formed a vast platform. When the sea level dropped, this platform became exposed. The porous limestone was then slowly eroded by slightly acidic rainwater, leading to the formation of […]
