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Writer's pictureJorge Sanders
Sep 72 min read

Portal Maya: What Does the Statue in Playa del Carmen Mean?


On a beautiful sunny day in Playa del Carmen, a group gathers around El Portal Maya to take photos. The sunlight highlights the impressive statue, creating a vibrant contrast against the blue sky. With beaming smiles, visitors pose enthusiastically in front of the sculpture, capturing the moment with their cameras and phones. The atmosphere is filled with joy and excitement as everyone enjoys the chance to immortalize their visit to this iconic city symbol. The gentle breeze and bright sunlight make the experience even more memorable, making each photo a unique keepsake of their time in Playa del Carmen.
Playa del Carmen wouldn’t be the same without El Portal Maya; it symbolizes the city and is a significant tourist attraction.

Portal Maya (the Mayan Portal) is an iconic Playa del Carmen statue at Parque Los Fundadores, right by the beach. 


This striking sculpture was unveiled in 2012 to commemorate the end of the Mayan calendar's 13th Baktun cycle, marking a significant cultural milestone in Mayan history.


The sculpture, created by artist Arturo Tavarez, stands about 50 feet tall and features two male and one female figures reaching toward each other, symbolizing unity and balance. 


The figures are connected by a circular arch adorned with a spiral and intertwined elements of nature, like wind and waves, representing the harmonious connection between humanity and the natural world.


Despite its official name, many people refer to it simply as "the statue of the mermaids" due to the figures' flowing forms and graceful appearance, which some observers think resemble mermaids.


Celebrating Mayan Heritage in Playa del Carmen

From a different angle, El Portal Maya is a striking figure about 40 meters away. The scene is framed by the gentle shadows cast by palm trees and lush vegetation, adding a natural serenity to the view. The statue is partially illuminated by dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves, giving it a serene and mystical aura. A few people are scattered around the area, enjoying the cool shade while admiring the impressive sculpture. The contrast between the shaded surroundings and the bright figure of El Portal Maya creates a tranquil yet captivating scene, offering a unique perspective of this iconic landmark.
El Portal Maya is the center of various celebrations and cultural activities, such as Maya dances and the Voladores de Papantla, as well as festive occasions like New Year's Day.

El Portal Maya also celebrates Playa del Carmen's Mayan heritage and the city's evolution, blending ancient traditions with modern progress. 


Some interpret the statue as a gateway or portal to new beginnings, reflecting both the Mayan civilization's cultural history and the region's growth as a tourist destination. 


It symbolizes time, change, and the continuing influence of Mayan culture on the modern-day Riviera Maya.


Located near the bustling Fifth Avenue in Playa del Carmen, the statue is a must-see for anyone vacationing in Playa del Carmen, offering a perfect mix of culture and scenic beauty in one of the city's most vibrant areas.


When Was the Portal Maya Built?

In the photo from Parque Los Fundadores, the El Portal Maya statue stands in the background, partially obscured by the gentle shade cast by the park's trees and palm trees. The image captures a group of local people gathered under the cool canopy, enjoying the respite from the sun. They are seated on benches and the grass, chatting and laughing, while the statue looms majestically in the distance. The vibrant green foliage creates a serene and inviting atmosphere, highlighting the contrast between the lively, shaded area and the iconic sculpture. The scene reflects a peaceful moment of community enjoyment amidst the cultural landmark.
The day the statue was erected is laden with symbolism in Maya culture, marking the end and beginning of an era in the Maya calendar.

El Portal Maya was unveiled on December 21, 2012. This date was chosen to commemorate the end of the 13th Baktun cycle in the Mayan calendar, which was a significant event in Mayan culture and symbolized a new era or cycle. 


The sculpture was officially inaugurated on this day, marking a blend of ancient traditions and modern celebrations in Playa del Carmen.


Where Is the Portal Maya Statue Located in Playa del Carmen?

On a very sunny and hot day in Parque Los Fundadores, the El Portal Maya statue stands prominently at the heart of the bustling tourist area. Imagine the sun's warmth on your skin and the heat radiating from the ground, with a gentle breeze occasionally bringing some relief. The park is alive with the sounds of people enjoying the day, and in the distance, you can sense the vastness of the sea beyond the statue. The statue's presence feels grand and impressive, and you can almost imagine the grandeur of the majestic ocean that forms a stunning backdrop. The combination of the sun's intensity, the lively atmosphere of the park, and the distant sound of the waves creates a vivid experience of this iconic location.
The statue is in the heart of the tourist zone, right where Fifth Avenue begins, with the majestic sea in the background.

The El Portal Maya statue is prominently situated by the waterfront at Parque Los Fundadores in Playa del Carmen. 


This landmark is conveniently located near the vibrant Fifth Avenue, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring the area. 


The park is adjacent to the Paseo del Carmen shopping mall. It is a short distance from the Ferry to Cozumel terminal, which connects visitors to the nearby island.


Parque Los Fundadores is a popular spot for tourists looking for things to do in Playa del Carmen. The statue's central location ensures a convenient and must-see attraction for anyone visiting the city. 


The statue, accessible to the public 24 hours a day, is prominently located at the corner of Juárez and Fifth Avenue, right by the beach.


If you're driving, please remember that parking meters are active from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with a rate of 10 pesos per hour.


Checkout the location here: Portal Maya



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2 days ago
Rated 5 out of 5 stars.

Beautiful!

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