From Hidden Island to Tourist Hot Spot: Cozumel's History

Throughout much of history, Cozumel remained largely hidden and unnoticed. The history of this charming island is quite unique in that when outsiders did take notice of Cozumel the results were generally quite epic. Between these episodes; however, Cozumel was able to slip back behind a veil and pass through the annals of time without much notice at all. 

Early Mayans settled on the island as early as 300 A.D. Later, the island flourished as a commercial trade port as well as a ceremonial site for the Mayans. Near the centre of the island a temple was erected in honor of Ixchel, the goddess of fertility. Mayan women traveled from all over the Yucatan Peninsula to pay tribute to the goddess.

The first Spaniards arrived on Cozumel in 1528, wreaking havoc and destruction among the Mayan culture. When the Spaniards first arrived, the island was thriving with numerous building sites. By the late 1540s smallpox had wiped out at least half of the Mayan population, which had once numbered 8,000. Following this, the island was virtually deserted and during this time became a refuge for pirates, including the infamous Jean Lafitte.

Indians seeking to flee the War of the Castes eventually found their way to Cozumel in 1848 and the beginnings of the mestizo population were established. Quite interestingly, the popularity of chewing gum in the United States contributed in large part to the growth and development of the islands. Locals worked to harvest the chicle that grow on Cozumel and shipped it to America, where it was coated in sugar and sold as Chiclets. Unfortunately, when synthetic chewing gum was developed, chicle was no longer needed and the major industry of Cozumel began to wane.

During World War II, note was once again taken of the island when the United States constructed an Air Force base in order to launch aircraft during the search for German u-boats. The resurgence of the island did not last long; however, and following the end of the war Cozumel suffered an economic depression. During this time much of the population moved away in search of work. The few residents that did remain subsisted on fishing.

Everything began to change; however, in 1961 when Jacques Coousteau produced a documentary about the spectacular sea life in the gorgeous waters off Cozumel. Tourists began to arrive almost overnight in order to see the wonders of Cozumel for themselves. A new era had arrived on Cozumel.

Most recently, Cozumel has become one of the most popular destinations in the world. Island locals now number more than 75,000. The friendly, pleasant hospitality of Cozumel natives is just one reason why tourists continue to flock to this gorgeous Mexican island. Spectacular diving opportunities, gorgeous beaches and the chance to view a wide range of rare wildlife that is indigenous to Cozumel attract thousands of visitors to the island each year. The wide range of sights, attractions and activities available on the island are sure to offer a pleasant diversion to all visitors.