The countdown to the end of the world is indeed upon us or at least that's what Hollywood would have you believe. Although the frenzy surrounding December 21st, 2012 has led to a tourism boom and cultural craze about the Mayan civilization in Mexico, Mexico's Cultural Ministry is running around trying to remove the misunderstanding.

The frenzy surrounding December 21st, 2012 has led to a tourism boom and cultural craze about the Mayan civilization in Mexico.

In many parts of the world, there's a lot of attention being paid to the so-called "Maya apocalypse". On the 21st of December, a major cycle in the 5,125-year-old Mayan Long Count calendar, a period known as the 13th Baktun, ends.

Some take this as "the end of the world." In Mexico, seminars have been held by the Ministry of Culture to clarify the Mayan culture and remove people's misunderstandings and fears.

Saul Martin Ancona Salazr, Head of Tourism Department of Yucutan State, said, "The date of December 21, 2012 is not the end of the world. It is just the end of a cycle in the Mayan Calender and as it ends, a new cycle will start. "

Salzar added that a series of activities will be held to offer a scientific and in-depth understanding of the Mayan culture.

Two Mayan culture-themed museums will be opened in Mexico by the end of the year.

In addition, the first University for Mayans will be established in Yucutan State, where the Mayan ancient cities of Tulum and Coba are located.

As the date is just around the corner, scenic spots here have already been flooded by tourists.

Manuel Jesus Criollo Dzib, worker of Chichen Itza Historical Sites management office, said, "We may receive 25,000 to 30,000 visitors during the peak time this year. The number of visitors is expected to grow by 15 percent to 20 percent beginning from 2013."

According to the Ministry of Tourism of Mexico, the activities related to the Maya culture are expected to attract an estimated 52 million tourists.

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