Cenotes — The Underworld of the Maya
The cenotes (from the Maya word ts'onot) of the Yucatán Peninsula are unique in the world: over 6,000 natural limestone holes that provide access to one of the largest underground river systems in the world.
How are cenotes formed?
The Yucatán Peninsula is a flat limestone slab without rivers or lakes on the surface. Rainwater seeps through the porous limestone and dissolves it over millions of years — creating underground caves and rivers. When the roof of a cave collapses, a cenote is formed: a natural hole with crystal-clear freshwater.
Types
- Open cenotes: The roof has completely collapsed (e.g., Cenote Ik Kil). Light, vegetation, often with roots.
- Semi-open cenotes: Partially covered (e.g., Gran Cenote). Dramatic beams of light.
- Closed/Cave cenotes: Completely underground (e.g., Dzitnup). Stalactites, mystical atmosphere.
For the Maya, cenotes were sacred — entrances to Xibalbá, the underworld. Archaeologists found offerings in many cenotes: jade, gold, ceramics, and human remains.
