New drone photos of Xiol strike quite the contrast
Much has changed since Yucatán Magazine first reported the discovery of the ancient city of Xiol and its restoration in Kanasín.
As is common during archaeological research, most of the vegetation around the site had been removed to make way for surveying.
But in little more than a year, nature has begun to reclaim its territory, making the ancient settlement look more beautiful than ever.
But it’s not just vegetation making a comeback, as during a recent visit to the site, it was possible to spot iguanas and several species of birds drinking from the chultun, or artificial well, at the south of the main ceremonial plaza.
Though chain link fences were erected around structures off the main plaza which were likely elite residences in ancient times, today Xiol’s main plaza is also blocked off, though only partially.
That said, there are no signs prohibiting entrance to the site, though the thick vegetation now makes forging a path through much more difficult than it used to be.
In the Yucatec-Maya language, Xiol roughly translates as “spirit of man.” But this name was only recently given to this ancient site by the INAH, as its original name has been lost to time.
Learn more about this fascinating site, its relation to ancient Mérida, and how to get there
Senior Editor Carlos Rosado van der Gracht is a journalist, photographer, and expedition leader. Born in Mérida, Carlos holds degrees from universities in Mexico, Canada, and Norway.
