Route of the Mayan Train is Endorsed Without Affects to Cultural Heritage

The train also promotes cultural and educational tourism in the region. Route of the Mayan Train is Endorsed Without Affects to Cultural Heritage.

The Mayan Train has allowed a deep approach to the cultural heritage of ancient Mayan civilizations and to current Mayan communities that seek to be heard and contribute to the transformation of the country.

This was stated by Diego Prieto Hernández, general director of the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), when announcing that the 450 professionals involved in the research, conservation, restoration and preservation of the monuments and materials discovered during the archaeological excavations will continue working until the end of year.

During his speech at the morning conference of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, the anthropologist highlighted the collaboration of INAH researchers and numerous young specialists from various national universities and schools, such as the National Autonomous University of Mexico, the University of Sciences and Arts of Chiapas, the University of the Americas, and other renowned institutions.

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Route of the Mayan Train is Endorsed Without Affects to Cultural Heritage

This team has carried out exhaustive archaeological rescue work in the areas affected by the construction of the Mayan Train.

Prieto Hernández assured that the project has received 100 percent approval in terms of heritage impact.

He stressed that the country’s cultural heritage has not been damaged and that, in fact, the works have facilitated the recovery of a large amount of valuable materials that provide crucial information about the Mesoamerican Mayan civilization.

As of June 12, 2024, 62,024 construction elements, 1,453,196 ceramic fragments and 1,993 movable assets have been recorded and preserved, in addition to 701 human skeletons and 2,252 natural features such as caves and cenotes.

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Route of the Mayan Train is Endorsed Without Affects to Cultural Heritage

Significant discoveries

Field work has allowed us to document a wide variety of archaeological elements.

Among the finds are albarradas, paths, foundations, platforms and pyramidal constructions that offer a detailed vision of the daily life and construction practices of the ancient Maya.

The recovered pottery fragments have provided information about migrations, artistic styles, commercial exchanges and population density in the region.

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Route of the Mayan Train is Endorsed Without Affects to Cultural Heritage

Conservation and restoration

Prieto Hernández highlighted that 1,812 archaeological pieces are in the process of restoration. Additionally, the project has identified and protected 701 human bones and numerous natural features in association with ancient human activity.

These efforts are part of the Program for the Improvement of Archaeological Zones (Promeza), which is underway in 29 archaeological sites distributed in Chiapas, Tabasco, Campeche, Yucatán and Quintana Roo.

The majesty of Xpujil

One of the emblematic sites of the Mayan Train route is the Xpujil Archaeological Zone, located in the south of Campeche.

This city, whose name means “cat’s tail” in Mayan, flourished during the Late Classic period, between the 7th and 9th centuries. Although the first evidence of occupation dates back to 400 BC, it is believed that its decline began at the end of the 12th century.

Xpujil is made up of approximately 25 architectural groups, among which the building known as the Three Towers stands out, an atypical structure that has three towers instead of the two characteristics of the Río Bec architectural style.

This site, along with others included on the Mayan Train tour, represents an invaluable window into the splendor and complexity of the Mayan civilization.

Route of the Mayan Train is Endorsed Without Affects to Cultural Heritage

The implementation of projects such as the Mayan Train, combined with conservation and restoration efforts, not only protects Mexico’s cultural heritage, but also facilitates access to these wonders for future generations, promoting cultural and educational tourism in the region.