lifestyle, travel This is Cozumel

Those paddling the 30 canoes across the sea to Cozumel, last Friday, had a tough job.

The currents and wind were against them as they took part in this year's historic Travesía Sagrada Maya, or Mayan Sacred Journey.

 
Cozumel events
Tough paddling.

The three-day reenactment brings to life the ancient, mystical journey taken by the Maya in their quest to pay tribute to the Goddess Ix Chel, whose sanctuary rests on the island.

Fortunately, on the return journey on Saturday, the conditions were more cooperative, and the canoes paddled back across the channel to Playa del Carmen in just a few hours.

The journey started in Polé, or Xcaret, on the mainland from where canoes, carefully crafted to match traditional vessels, launched for the 17-mile journey across to Cozumel.

Cozumel canoe crossing
30 canoes made the journey.

 

Once on shore in Cozumel, participants made offerings and performed ceremonies for Ix Chel at Chankanaab Park.

They revived ancient practices with rituals, dances and music to provide an enriching experience.

Those within ear shot heard Mayan myths and heroic legends and learned about the ancient civilizations’ sophisticated trade, numerology and navigation.

The Mayan Sacred Journey began five years ago and has reawakened interest from locals and educate visitors about this ancient culture.

Visit our Facebook page to see photos of the Mayan Canoe Crossing 2011 or see our tourist information section for more about Cozumel events.


Related News:

"Training For Sacred Canoe Journey" - Jan 27, 2011.

"Goddesses, Chocolate And Canoes" - May 27, 2010.

"A Sacred Mayan Journey" - May 13, 2009.

"Feature: Sacred Mayan Journey" - Oct 16, 2008.

"Pilgrims Paddle To Cozumel" - May 14, 2008.

"Sacred Canoe Crossing" - Jun 06, 2007.