Exploring Kohunlich Mayan Ruins and Temple of the Masks

If you’re crusing the Western Caribbean itinerary, chances are it will include the port of Costa Maya, Mexico. Several excursions will include various ruins to explore.  We were here a few years ago and decided to visit one we haven’t seen about two hours away called Kohunlich (pronounced KOE•HOON•LEECH) Mayan ruins. Read all about this fascinating and unique temple.

History of Kohunlich Mayan Ruins

Kohunlich was first discovered in the early 1900s by an American archaeologist and re-discovered by a group of villagers in 1968. Archaeologists started excavations in 1969. But, two-thirds of the area is still buried. 

The early 6th-century inhabitants built this ancient city and abandoned it in the 12th century. Since they didn’t know the original name, they called it Kohunlich, derived from the English word “Cohoon Ridge” because of the numerous Cohoon palms resembling mini coconuts in the area.

Its distance from major tourism areas gave the place a serene and mystical atmosphere. Surrounded by a lush rainforest, the remaining structures on-site served religious, administrative, and residential purposes.

Many of the stuccoed buildings were primarily painted red embellished with stuccoed figures and geometric designs. It was a good exercise to imagine it in its days of grandeur and visualize the residents in their daily routines.

The largest construction building originally shaped like a “C” was the Acropolis. This was a vast residential complex which had 26 feet (8 m) high vaulted interiors.

The center stairs led us to multiple chambers and patios that looked out into the plazas.

Next to the Acropolis was the palacio. The palace didn’t quite meet royal dwelling standards. But, they considered it an elegant residence for the more prominent people of Kohunlich. Not much of the structure remains with trees and plants invading its crevices.

The Western Residential Complex housed the high ranking artisans who specialized in shell artifacts. People believed that the ancient city served as a regional trading center. Worker and peasant quarters were located elsewhere, far from these residences.

One of the great things about Kohunlich was the freedom to explore and climb the structures compared to other Maya ruins in the area. The wide open spaces were perfect for kids to run around in and discover hidden corners.

While there were plenty of structures to see, Kohunlich’s main attraction and most important architectural site was the Pyramid or Temple of the Masks built around 500 AD.

The impressive masks made up the lower side panels of the pyramid with the center stairs leading to chambers on top.  These  sculpted stucco masks were about 6-8 feet ( 1.8 -2.4 m) high each still showing remnants of their original color.

They positioned the buildings to face the sunset, representing Kohunlich rulers in the form of the Maya Sun God “Kinich Ahau” – one of the more important Maya deities.

The magnificent three-dimensional faces and their surroundings contained many symbolic messages open to various interpretations and debates.

These remarkably well preserved masks were protected through the years by a construction of a later temple over them.  It is now covered and protected by two large thatch roofs though obscuring some of its views.

To see these masks up close, we had to climb the adjacent steep stairs and patiently waited for our turn to see the intricate details carved on them.   Although, it was definitely worth the climb to the top of the stairs for stunning views of the forest canopy.

Was it worth the long, four-hour round trip bus ride?  Absolutely! The masks were incredible Maya treasures and were truly unique. 

The park-like setting, sprawling plazas, captivating history and remaining structures were amazing.  It was a memorable visit and ignited our desire to explore more archaeological ruins in the future.

Visiting Kohunlich Mayan Ruins with Kids

These Mayan ruins can only hold kids’ interests for a limited time. We knew it would be a challenge to keep them occupied but one of the great things about Kohunlich was the expansive grassy areas to run around in and structures to climb and explore. 

But, we also wanted our kids to walk away from here with some knowledge. We engaged them in a few activities to experience these amazing ruins that maybe you can try with your kids.

• Close your eyes and imagine how this place looked back then using what’s left of the ruins.  We gave them summaries of what we learned from the guide and pointed out what building they were looking at used to be.  Luckily, some of the architecture held their interest long enough to ask questions.
• Ask them to identify items they saw in the surrounding the area of the masks and what they may have meant.
• Ask them what they thought kids their age did in this area or how they lived.

Have you been to Kohunlich Mayan ruins in Mexico?

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