Some amazing photography by National Geographic. Some of these are just stunning.


Photograph by Paul Nicklen
A diver explores a cenote near the Maya ruins of Tulum.


Photograph by Shaul Schwarz
At the Xcaret theme park south of Cancún a mythic Maya lord of death mingles with tourists before a spectacular re-creation of ancient pilgrimages. The annual event—complete with canoe voyage—honors Ixchel, the goddess of fertility. Such ties to the past draw visitors to the Yucatán from the rest of Mexico and abroad.


Photograph by Shaul Schwarz
Boys from the village of Yaxuná cool off in a cenote, or limestone sinkhole. A 65-foot ladder lets them climb out after a dip. The statue is a local artist’s version of a trickster spirit from Maya folklore. The villagers put it there for the tourists they hope will stop by while visiting the area’s archaeological sites.


Photograph by Paul Nicklen
A pyramid 90 feet tall and a platform adorned with a feathered serpent’s head testify to the former glory of Chichén Itzá, now a popular tourist destination. This once powerful city was built in about the ninth century, likely aligned with four sacred cenotes and with the sun’s seasonal movements.


Photograph by Paul Nicklen
Hovering above the offering shelf in the Holtún cenote, de Anda surveys a pile of bones. “This work is about millimeters,” says photographer Paul Nicklen. “You’re right above remains that haven’t been moved in centuries, so you have to have impeccable diving skills.”

- http://ngm.nationalgeographic.com/20...s-cave-670.jpg

























Many more photos here: 125 years of National Geographic: Stunning photography since 1888

What a beautiful rock we live on, eh? Just outstanding.