The Maya, wonderful astronomers, skillful architects, sailors and tradesmen, talented artists and zealous caretakers of their gods, developed one of the most important cultures in Mesoamerica before the Spaniard conquerors arrived to this land.
Ports like Xamanhá, today´s Playa del Carmen, and mainly Ppolé, modern day Xcaret, served as the starting point for the pilgrimages that came from the most remote cities of the Mayan world on their way to the sanctuary of the goddess Ixchel in the island of Cuzamil, today’s Cozumel.
On the 5th Anniversary of the Sacred Mayan Journey, we want to keep on reenacting this ritual of the ancient sailors with your participation. Dance, ceremonies, commerce and the physical effort of the oarsmen are key elements of the pilgrimage toward Cozumel in search of the message that stems from the oracle of Ixchel; goddess of the moon, the tides and floods, medicine, pregnancy, weaving and regeneration cycles. An appreciation for the rich culture left by the Maya as a legacy is what brings us together once again
To recreate the Sacred Mayan Crossing in such traditional sites as Xcaret, Cozumel and Playa del Carmen in order to re-establish an ancient practice. In the long run, it can form both a link to a cultural identity on many levels for the region’s inhabitants, as well as an attraction for local, national and international tourism.In addition, we seek to:
Diversify the area’s cultural offering through a multi-disciplinary project—including anthropologists, musicians, dancers, rituals, ritual purification, business, physical exertion—that strengthens and teaches the area’s original culture, forgotten for many years, and to foster expansion of tourism in the area.
Strengthen communication and cooperation between public and private institutions in Cozumel, Xcaret and the Riviera Maya through a common effort to enrich the area’s cultural offerings.
Educate the public on ancient Mayan practices, especially related to veneration of the goddess Ixchel, considered the Mother goddess of the region’s ancient Mayan culture.Engage the local community in strengthening the Mayan culture as the region’s original culture, currently at risk due to migratory processes of thousands of workers, professionals and tourists that have come to the area.
The Sacred Mayan Journey promotes active participation of:
• The community, from the youngest people to the elderly men and women.
• Men and women from 18 to 70 years of age in very good physical condition.
• Mayan dance performers (children, pregnant and elderly women).
Would like to get further information? Visit Travesia Sagrada Maya Website
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