Here is a detailed expansion of the architecture and structures of Tulum:
*Architecture*
1. *Architectural style*: Maya-tolteca, with Mexica and puuc influences.
2. *Materials*: Limestone, stucco, wood and clay.
3. *Constructive techniques*: Masonry, vaults, arches and wooden ceilings.
4. *Decoration*: Sculptures, wall paintings, reliefs and hieroglyphs.
5. *Influences*: Classical Mayan, Toltec and Mexica architecture.
*Main Structures*
1. *The Castle (Temple of the Descending God)*: Main structure, 25 meters high.
2. *Temple of Paintings*: Contains mural paintings that represent gods and rituals.
3. *Temple of the God of the Wind (Chaac)*: Fingered to the god of rain.
4. *Puerta del Sol*: Main entrance to the city.
5. *Walls*: 6 meters high and 8 km long.
6. *Cerro del Búho*: Ceremonial structure with panoramic views.
7. *Palace*: Residence of the Mayan rulers.
*Other Structures*
1. *Temple of the Estela*: Contains stelas with Mayan inscriptions.
2. *Temple of the Frescoes*: Well-preserved wall paintings.
3. *Ball Game*: Field for the sacred Mayan game.
4. *Cementery*: Mayan burial area.
5. *Water system*: Channels and cisterns to collect water.
6. *Towers of surveillance*: They protected the city from invasions.
7. *Secondary doors*: Access to specific areas.
*Defensive Features*
1. *Walls*: They protected the city from invasions.
2. *Towers*: Surveillance and defense.
3. *Doors*: They controlled access.
4. *Trenches*: They protected the city from attacks.
5. *Stone curtains*: They reinforced the walls.
*Restoration and Conservation*
1. *Archaeological projects*: Excavations and restoration.
2. *Conservation*: Protection against erosion and damage.
3. *Sustainable tourism*: Responsible management of tourism.
4. *Environmental monitoring*: Protection of biodiversity.
5. *Education*: Programs to raise awareness about the cultural importance.
*Construction Chronology*
1. *13th century A.D. *: Initial construction.
2. *XIV-XV century A.D. *: Expansion and renovation.
3. *16th century A.D. *: Abandonment and decline.
4. *19th-20th century A.D. *: Rediscovery and restoration.
*Sources*
1. "Tulum: Official Guide" (Secretariat of Culture of Mexico)
2. "La Arquitectura Maya" (René Millon)
3. "Tulum: History and Archaeology" (INAH)
4. UNESCO
5. National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH)
6. Government of the State of Quintana Roo.
