El Meco Archaeological Site Renovation Progress: Major Updates Revealed

Over 50% of the renovation work at the El Meco archaeological site in Quintana Roo has been completed, including the Visitors Attention Center (CATVI), according to Governor Mara Lezama. The ancient Mayan port, located across from Puerto Juarez in the mainland area of Isla Mujeres, is being transformed to include a sea entrance.

The renovation project was proposed by the state executive to the Federal Government, and work began in December last year. The project includes the closure of an avenue and the construction of a pier, allowing visitors to access the site by sea.

Governor Lezama stated, "I will meet with Diego Prieto to discuss El Meco and other archaeological sites in the state. I previously introduced them to an archaeological zone in Cancun, and that project is now a reality. We are nearing the completion of the CATVI, which is looking very beautiful." The meeting with the head of INAH is scheduled to take place before the end of the year, and will also cover topics related to the recent opening of Ichkabal, Oxtankah, and other archaeological sites in Quintana Roo.

The federal government's project, managed by INAH, aims to create an immersive experience of an ancient settlement directly connected with the Caribbean Sea. The "El Meco Pier" project, which includes a regional wood structure, umbrella area, hammock holders, a wooden platform, and a pergola with a thatched roof, has an investment of three million pesos.

The project is part of the Archaeological Zone Improvement Program (PROMEZA) led by the Culture Secretary of the Mexican Government through INAH. It will serve as a visitor center to ruins that will complete a circuit with El Rey, San Miguelito, and the Mayan Museum of Cancun.

El Meco, located nine kilometers from downtown Cancun, was a critical center for maritime traffic for the inhabitants of Bahia de Isla Mujeres. One of its main structures is El Castillo, standing 12.5 meters high.