Unraveling the Mysteries of Aluxes - The Mischievous Tricksters of Mayan Culture

Have you ever heard of Aluxes? These tiny mystical beings are an integral part of Mayan folklore and are believed to have existed for centuries. Often called goblins or elves, Aluxes are regarded as guardians of the jungle, woods, and rocks, and they protect the crops from invaders and third parties. Legend has it that heir size is no more than 1 foot and even have the power to mimic animals and throw rocks at humans to scare them away.

But did you know that Aluxes are not just a part of a myth or a story to scare children? They were very much real to the ancient Mayan civilization, and worshiped as a significant presence in their daily lives. These beings were not considered gods, but were still offered tributes such as food and flowers, in return for their protection and assistance.

The Aluxes live in special houses called Kahtal Alux, meaning "the Quarters" and can be found in several thru different zones of the road and the city of Cancun. This structures can also be found throughout Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize. These homes vary in size and shape, ranging from pyramids to arches, but all serve the same purpose - to keep the Aluxes happy.

According to Mayan legend, these mystical creatures were created by high priests using mud from a cave where no woman had ever stepped foot. The mud was then molded into the shape of the being, and after nine nights, mixed with honey, flowers, and nine drops of blood. The magical being had to stay in the shadow for nine more nights to complete the creation process

The Aluxes were guardians, and take care of the crop not to be damaged by third parties, or invaders, that’s why they are considered Tricksters as if you were near one of their guarded properties, they will make sounds mimicking animals, or throwing rocks at you, even misplacing things like tools.

One of the most famous stories of the Aluxes in Cancun dates back to 1980 when the bridge between Cancun Airport and Kukulcan Avenue was being constructed. Each day, the workers found that all the work they had done the previous day had been completely destroyed during the night. Desperate for a solution, they sought the help of a Mayan priest who told them about the Aluxes. The priest advised them to build a small temple under the bridge so that the Aluxes could live there, and the workers could continue with their work. This temple still stands today, and offerings of corn, flowers, Mayan honey, Pozol (a corn-based drink), and fruits can be found there.

So, next time you are in Cancun, keep an eye out for these magical beings and the special houses they call home. You might even catch a glimpse of them if you're lucky! And if you happen to spot a structure that looks like an Aluxe house in your resort, who knows? Maybe the Aluxes have found a new home there too.

Bonus Story
The Aluxe's Gift

In the heart of the Mayan jungle, deep within the Yucatan peninsula, there was a small village where people lived in harmony with nature. They followed the ancient ways of their ancestors, paying homage to the spirits and gods that protected their land.

One day, a young boy named Paco stumbled upon an Aluxe, a mischievous Mayan sprite that lived in the trees. The Aluxe was small, with pointed ears and bright eyes that sparkled like emeralds. He was a trickster, known for playing pranks on the villagers, but he was also known for his generosity.

Paco was scared at first, but the Aluxe soon put him at ease. The sprite showed him the wonders of the jungle, the animals, and plants that lived there, and even took him to visit the nearby ruins of an ancient temple dedicated to Ixchel, the goddess of fertility and healing.

Paco was awed by the beauty of the temple, the carvings of the gods, and the intricate patterns of the walls. He felt a deep connection to Ixchel, and he prayed to her, asking for her blessings.

The Aluxe listened to his prayer and smiled. He knew that Ixchel had heard him and had granted his request. So, he gave Paco a gift, a small jade figurine of Ixchel, which he said was blessed by the goddess herself.

Paco was overjoyed and thanked the Aluxe for his generosity. He promised to honor Ixchel and to protect the jungle, just like his ancestors had done.

As he walked back to his village, Paco felt a newfound sense of purpose. He knew that he had been chosen by Ixchel to be her messenger, and he was determined to spread her message of peace and harmony throughout the land.

From that day on, Paco became known as the boy who had received the Aluxe's gift. He grew up to be a wise leader, respected by his people and beloved by Ixchel. And whenever he felt lost or unsure, he would hold the jade figurine in his hands, and he would feel Ixchel's presence, guiding him on his journey.