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El Cadrel
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| Address |
Turn at Km 17.5 (off Carretara Sur or Avenida
Rafael E, Melgar) |
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| Admission |
Free |
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| Hours |
Dawn until Dusk |
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Spanish explorers first discovered El Cadrel in 1518. The area
was the main hub of Maya life on the island and was named the first
official city of Cozumel in 1847. The only trace of El Cadrel’s
Maya past is the ruins of an arched structure. The rest of the temples
were torn down by Conquistadores and the U.S. army during World
War II to make way for the first airport on the island. Additional
ruins can be found off the beaten path nearby in the jungle, but
you will need a tour guide to find them. Horse back riding companies
offer specialized tours for this area.
Today, El Cadrel is more of a fishing community with small, polished
homes and gardens. It is believed that Mexico’s first mass
was held in El Cadrel’s green and white cinder block church.
Inside crosses are shrouded in embroidered lace. A fair is held
here each May complete with bullfights and dancing.
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