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Square · Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo
Parque de los Fundadores
The seaside square of Playa del Carmen, next to the pier for boats to Cozumel, with the Portal Maya sculpture and, on some days, the Papantla flyers.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Parque de los Fundadores
Parque de los Fundadores is at the southern tip of Quinta Avenida, between the beach and the pier from which boats depart to Cozumel. It is the best-known square in Playa del Carmen, a meeting point for residents and visitors and the starting point for any stroll through the center.
On the beach side stands Portal Maya, a bronze sculpture several meters high, formed by two human figures that join in an arch. It was installed in 2012, the year the end of a cycle of the Mayan calendar drew attention to the region, and became one of the city's symbols.
On some weekdays, on a tall mast in the middle of the square, the Papantla flyers perform: men who descend spinning tied by ropes, in a ceremony of Totonac origin recognized by UNESCO as intangible heritage. The performance is usually at sunset and a voluntary contribution is requested.
From the park you can see the movement of the boats to Cozumel and, on clear days, the silhouette of the island on the horizon.
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
From 20 minutes to 1 hour, including the flyers' performance.
Best time
At sunset, when the square fills and the flyers usually perform. Confirm the days on site.
How to get there
It is at the southern end of Quinta Avenida, opposite the pier for boats to Cozumel, a few minutes' walk from the Quinta Avenida bus terminal.
Tip
The voladores performance is open; leave a contribution if you watch. The square is a good meeting point for those catching the boat.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Parque de los Fundadores
What is the Portal Maya?
A bronze sculpture of two human figures joined in an arch, on the beachfront at Parque de los Fundadores, installed in 2012.
Where to see the Papantla voladores in Playa del Carmen?
At Parque de los Fundadores, on some days of the week, usually in the late afternoon.
Is Parque de los Fundadores near the Cozumel pier?
Yes, next to it. It’s the departure point for boats to the island.