When traveling in the area or when doing research before you arrive for your Tulum vacation, the term Mesoamerica will come up in your research and travels. We had a guest ask us last week what Mesoamerica was and we had a lovely conversation about the area that this term refers to.
Mesoamerica is the geographical and cultural area that includes Mexico and Central America. The term was used prior to the Spanish conquest in the 1500’s and was re-used as a geographical and cultural term once the countries in Central America and Mexico became independent from foreign (Spanish) rule. Not only is the land mass considered Mesoamerica but the barrier reef that exists off the shores of these countries is also referred to as the Mesoamerican reef, the second largest barrier reef in the world.
The eastern coast of Mexico and the countries that are located on the eastern coast of Central America are what makes up Mesoamerica. Southern and central Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, Nicaragua and Costa Rica. All of these countries border the Caribbean and all of these countries have settlements from the Mayas, Olmecan, Toltecas, Teotihuacans and Zapotecas. Other countries and parts of Mexico are not included in Mesoamerica as their geographical and ancestry was not influenced or dependant upon these native cultures or the Caribbean ocean.
Defining features of the Mesoamerican cultures
The Mesoamerican cultures were highly organized and urban cultures that existed before the invasion of the Spanish. Their diet is based in corn, beans and root vegetables, they had a calendar system, they had writing systems, and shared a ball game throughout their history. The social systems of these cultures were very sophisticated, agriculture was the main source of work and the reason for their growing population, and they did create massive urban centers which we see now as archeological ruins.
Why is Mesoamerica important?
The history of Mesoamerica is influencial in the area of Tulum, the Riviera Maya and coastal regions to the south. These cultures continue to be studied worldwide for their sophisticated and highly organized societal, political and cultural systems. The area was successfully populated due to these ancient traditions and continues to fascinate visitors and historians alike. Understanding the three periods of development of the Mesoamerican culture can answer many questions about the culture.
Read more about the Mesoamerican barrier reef off the beaches of Tulum and the creatures that inhabit the second largest barrier reef in the world.