Heritage or Heresy : the Public Interpretation of Archaeology and Culture in the Maya Riviera

How can we effectively interpret and present one culture to another without stereotypes or over-simplifications? What is the best way to present an authoritative version of a national heritage without also endangering ancient sites or being insensitive to the local customs, beliefs, and religious practices of the indigenous peoples? This volume addresses the ongoing thrust in archaeology to take the next step after preserving the past: interpreting that past for the future. That future audience includes both local citizens and tourists who may have little background in archaeology, anthropology, or the history of the culture featured. Walker presents the key components of the anthropological study of tourism as a global phenomenon, with particular emphasis on the more prominent arguments for how and why tourism is a universal and meaningful human activity. The highly controversial topic of authenticity is examined, with special attention given to how "authentic" has been defined and how it relates to the ways in which archaeological sites, artifacts, and cultural traditions are presented--or not presented--to the visiting public. The ephemeral promise of “authenticity” drives the heritage tourism industry, which is a key consideration for the long term economy of the Maya Riviera and elsewhere. Through analysis of seven archaeological sites on the Yucatan peninsula that are open to heritage touring, Walker reveals the planned growth of the Maya Riviera since the early 1970s and examines the impact of international tourism on both ancient structures and the contemporary Maya people and culture. Contents 6 List of Illustrations 8 Introduction 12 1. The Public Interpretation of Archaeological Sites 18 2. A Brief History of Mexican Archaeology 42 3. Heritage and Archaeological Tourism in Mexico and Quintana Roo 48 4. Living in the Yucatán Today 62 5. A Discussion of Problems and Potential Remedies 81 6. Mexican Cultural Identity and Patrimony in Quintana Roo 91 7. Public Interpretation at Mexican Museums 102 8. Conclusion 112 Bibliography 116 Index 130 The public interpretation of archaeological sites A brief history of Mexican archaeology Heritage and archaeological tourism in Mexico and Quintana Roo Living in the Yucatan today Discussion of problems and potential remedies Mexican cultural identity and patrimony in Quintana Roo Public interpretation at Mexican museums Conclusion. Through an analysis of seven archaeological sites on the Yucatan peninsula that are open to heritage touring, the author reveals the planned growth of the Maya Riviera since the early 1970s and examines the impact of international tourism on both ancient structures and the contemporary Maya people and culture.