San Gervasio was founded by the Mayans around 100 BC. The city continued to be a religious center until the 16th century. At its height, the city was home to between 2000 and 3000 Mayan people.
San Gervasio was dedicated to Ixchel -- Goddess of midwifery, fertility, medicine and weaving. Many women from the inland Mayan settlements made the pilgrimage here to Ixchel's shrine at some point in their lifetime.
San Gervasio also holds several other distinct footnotes. It was the site of the first contact between Mayans and Europeans when two Spanish sailors where shipwrecked here in 1511. The city was also the site of the first Catholic mass on Mexican soil.
Today, the jungle has reclaimed much of the city of San Gervasio. Brightly colored birds and iguanas roam the paths and perch on the shattered walls. While not well preserved, the ruins contain many interesting homes, temples, and plazas. Nestled in the middle of a beautiful dense jungle, these spectacular ruins are definitely worth a visit.
To log this cache, you must follow in the footsteps and customs of the thousands of pilgrims that have traveled to this exact spot -- place a coin or small offering on the altar beneath the arch. Include a detailed description of your offering along with the 'as-the-crow-flies' distance from the altar to your home. Post a photo of yourself with your GPS to verify the find. (No old vacation photos please!)
NOTE: The ruins of San Gervasio are located deep in the heart of a tropical jungle. You may walk a mile or more over uneven ground during your explorations. I recommend that you wear sturdy shoes and bring plenty of bug repellant, sunscreen, and bottled water to insure the safety and comfort of your expedition.
Thorns
No Dogs Allowed Restricted hours Fee area $ 8
Restrooms available
More than Half a Mile from Trailhead |
| |