Museum · Chetumal, Quintana Roo
Museo de la Cultura Maya
Chetumal museum about the Maya civilization, organized in three levels that represent the sky, the earth and the underworld, with models, replicas and archaeological pieces.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Museo de la Cultura Maya
The Museum of Maya Culture is in downtown Chetumal, on Avenida de los Héroes. It was inaugurated in 1993 and is one of the main museums of southeastern Mexico on the Maya civilization.
The exhibition follows the Maya idea of the universe, divided into three levels. The upper floor represents the sky, with astronomy and the calendar; the ground floor, the earth, with daily life, architecture and trade; and the basement, Xibalbá, the underworld, with funerary rituals. In the center, a large ceiba, the sacred tree, links the three levels.
The museum has models of cities such as Chichén Itzá, Tikal and Copán, replicas of stelae and codices, archaeological pieces and interactive resources. Beside it there is a courtyard with replicas of sculptures and an art gallery.
It is a good place to understand the history before visiting the sites in southern Quintana Roo and Campeche.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 1½ to 2 hours.
Best time
On a very hot or rainy day. Check opening days before going.
How to get there
It is on Avenida de los Héroes, in downtown Chetumal. You can get there on foot or by taxi.
Tip
Follow the order from the sky to the underworld to understand the museum’s organization.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Museo de la Cultura Maya
How is the Museum of Maya Culture organized?
In three levels: the sky, the earth and the underworld, linked by a large ceiba.
Where is the Museum of Maya Culture?
On Avenida de los Héroes, in downtown Chetumal.
Does the museum have original pieces?
It has archaeological pieces, models and replicas of stelae and codices.
