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Poor soils and a shortage of fresh water may have done little to foster the growth of large cities in ancient times. Nevertheless, when the Spaniards first set foot in the area they found a considerable population arrayed against them. European diseases and the effects of war and slavery decimated the Maya and the territory was abandoned for 300 years, with the exception of Bacalar.
The boom in forestry and chicle harvesting in the early 20th century gave a boost to the economy, particularly in the south. The last 30 years have seen a population explosion in Quintana Roo as migrants from other parts of Mexico and abroad travel here in search of work and a better life. The resorts of Cancún, Cozumel and Playa del Carmen, Chetumal and villages along the shores of the Hondo River are the communities recording the fastest growth rates.
Central Quintana Roo, also known as the Zona Maya is an area of scattered rural communities where the Maya still cling to ancient beliefs and customs. In other parts of the state, however, the population is a mix of Mexicans, Maya and foreigners. Along the coast and around Chetumal, there is a strong Caribbean influence, and it gives the state its unique atmosphere.
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© 2004 Editorial Veras. La guía Oficial del Caribe Mexicano.