#12957 Admiring a Mayan Goddess Along the Sea in Cozumel, Mexico

From afar, she resembles the Greek gorgon Medusa, with her strands of serpents twisting in the air. But this statue, within a circular pool on the main drag of Cozumel's international port, is actually Xchel (or Ix Chel), a Mayan fertility goddess who is also identified with the moon and earth. Still said to rule the island, Xchel is a patroness of weavers and mothers. According to myth, she paid special attention to the pilgrims who set foot onto her island. (Isla Mujeres is also said to worship her.) Eight dragon-like monster heads surround the goddess, while the horizon and the sea create a dramatic backdrop. There are various statues and monuments on this ocean stroll, but this cream and golden sculpture stands out.