It may have been formerly also known by the name Zama.
While an inscription dated 564 has been found at the site, most of the structures now visible were built in the Post-Classic Era, between about 1200 and 1450. The city remained occupied through the early years of the Spanish conquest of Yucatán, but was abandoned in by the end of the 16th century. Local Maya continued to visit the temples to burn incense and pray until the late 20th century when tourists became too numerous.
A number of the buildings sport fresco murals on the interior (small remaining traces of paint suggest that the exterior of some buildings may have been similarly decorated). The murals show Mixtec influence.
The first detailed description of the ruins was published by John Lloyd Stephens and Frederick Catherwood in 1843.
The site is of moderate size, with construction of modest sized buildings. However Tulum is one of the most visited of ancient Maya sites, sporting a picturesque view of the Caribbean and a location a short distance from the popular resort of Cancun.