INAH’s Pioneering Museums in Tulum and Calakmul

TULUM, México – In a remarkable leap forward, the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) is propelling the development of site museums within the archaeological marvels of Tulum in Quintana Roo and Calakmul in Campeche. The visionary behind this progress, Diego Prieto, the institute’s director, unveiled these significant strides during a vibrant press conference on the morning of August 7th. This pivotal event also marked the release of the report detailing the astonishing advancements across sections 5, 6, and 7 of the transformative Tren Maya project.

Within the pristine expanse of the Jaguar National Park, an idea of profound cultural significance is taking shape. This entails the prospective establishment of the Eastern Coast Museum, which promises to be an eloquent narrative showcasing the cultural and historical tapestry of the Mayan populations gracing the sun-kissed Caribbean coastline of the Yucatán Peninsula. Diego Prieto, at the helm of INAH, divulged that the museum’s conceptual framework stands at a commendable 90 percent completion.

Meanwhile, in the enigmatic realm of Calakmul, history is being rewritten. A pioneering initiative is underway – the inception of the inaugural Calakmul Site Museum in Campeche. This visionary endeavor has already embarked on its journey, attaining a noteworthy 7 percent progress. It is poised to unveil a captivating mosaic of archaeological wonders, a testament to the relentless pursuits of countless archaeologists whose relentless quests for knowledge have breathed life into long-forgotten relics.

Diego Prieto meticulously elucidated the contours of the Archaeological Zone Improvement Program (Promeza), a sweeping endeavor that has been meticulously tailored to this region’s unique heritage. He also regaled the audience with tales of discoveries, recounting the challenges faced and ingeniously surmounted to preserve the cultural and natural heritage of these sacred grounds.

A Journey of Restoration, Step by Step

Deep within these hallowed grounds, a symphony of restoration reverberates. Each archaeological zone undergoes meticulous research, steadfast conservation, and the integration of vital infrastructure. The fifth segment of this monumental journey is dedicated to honing the splendor of El Meco, Tulum, Cobá, Muyil, and the resplendent Ecoarchaeological Corridor of Paamul II. Amongst these marvels, Tulum shines brightest, basking in its 35 percent progress in research and conservation, alongside a robust 45 percent in infrastructural enhancements.

The saga continues into the sixth segment, where historic tales unfold across Oxtankah, Dzibanché, Chacchoben, and the promising realm of Ichkabal – a sanctuary anticipated to welcome the curious masses by 2024. And then, the seventh segment unfurls its secrets, resplendent in Campeche’s domain, graced by the presence of Kohunlich and the burgeoning legacy of Calakmul.

Gems Unearthed: The Spectacle of Segment Seven

In the sanctified realm of segments 5, 6, and 7, a wealth of treasures has emerged from the depths of time. As of the ever-illuminating date, August 7, 2023, a staggering 35,380 immovable assets have been meticulously documented and safeguarded. A cornucopia of 544 moveable artifacts takes its place among these hallowed halls, accompanied by the scrutiny of 199,965 examined pottery shards, 106 revered burials, and 1,627 harmonious natural features. With captivating finesse, it is within the seventh segment that the saga of discovery reaches its zenith.

Diego Prieto’s fervent declaration resonates like a triumphant crescendo, reverberating through the annals of time. The monumental journey through these tracts has unveiled an unprecedented tapestry, where architectural marvels, ancient pathways, resilient edifices, and regal residences have converged, providing an exquisite tableau capturing the pulsating heart of a bygone era. As Prieto’s voice carries the weight of this awe-inspiring revelation, it is clear that these treasures illuminate not just the past, but also the future.