There were numerous Mayan cities within Mesoamerica, a region stretching from central Mexico to Costa Rico. They date from 750 BC until the end of the 17th century. Most of their communities were built inland. This makes Tulum unique for two reasons: it was constructed on a coastline and is the furthest east. Archeologists belief it was a port city for an active marine trade. Evidence suggests canoes up to 50 feet in length regularly arrived at this seaport.
