Located in the eastern part of the state of Yucatán, just 120 km from the city of Mérida on the road to Cancún, Chichen Itza is one of the most impressive and enigmatic archaeological sites in the world. Its name, meaning "Mouth of the Well of the Itzaes," evokes the mystery and grandeur of this ancient civilization. Chichen Itza is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, making it a must-visit destination for any traveler looking to immerse themselves in Mayan history and culture.
History and Mystery
Founded in the 9th century AD by the Itzaes, a group of Maya who were likely descendants of the Putun or Chontal Maya, Chichen Itza was an important religious, political, and military center. Over the centuries, the city grew into one of the largest and most powerful settlements in the region. However, its history is filled with enigmas. Despite flourishing for several centuries, Chichen Itza was abandoned around 1250 AD, and to this day, archaeologists have not reached a definitive consensus on the reasons for its decline. Some theories suggest internal conflicts, prolonged droughts, or warfare.
Despite its abandonment, Chichen Itza maintained its symbolic power for centuries. In fact, in 1540, Francisco de Montejo, the Spanish conquistador and founder of Mérida, considered making this ancient city the capital of Yucatán due to its spiritual and political significance.
The Grandeur of Chichen Itza
At its peak, Chichen Itza covered approximately 25 square kilometers, with the central area—its religious, cultural, and administrative hub—spanning about 6 square kilometers. Here, the Mayan elites lived in elaborately decorated palaces, while the surrounding fields housed an estimated population of 50,000 to 100,000 people, who lived in palm-thatched huts.
One of the most fascinating aspects of this site is the diversity of its constructions, reflecting the Maya’s advanced knowledge of astronomy, mathematics, and architecture. Chichen Itza is not just a site to admire; it is a place to contemplate the achievements of a civilization that left an enduring legacy.
The Temple of Kukulkán: A Marvel of Precision
The most iconic structure at Chichen Itza is undoubtedly the Temple of Kukulkán. Standing 30 meters tall, this majestic pyramid is a testament to the architectural and scientific brilliance of the Maya. Its construction is estimated to have taken place between 650 and 800 AD, though its exact age remains under study. What is most impressive about El Castillo is not just its size but its relationship with the Mayan solar calendar. Each of its four sides has 91 steps, totaling 364, and with the top platform included, the pyramid has 365 steps—the exact number of days in the solar year. This precision serves as a reminder of the Maya’s profound astronomical knowledge.
The Temple of Kukulkán is also famous for the light and shadow phenomenon that occurs during the spring and autumn equinoxes when the feathered serpent, Kukulkán, appears to descend the pyramid's steps in an astonishing optical illusion. This event draws thousands of visitors from around the world, who gather to witness the magic of the ancient Maya. It is a spectacle that connects science with spirituality, leaving no one indifferent.
The Great Ball Court: A Cosmic Stage
Another of the site's most remarkable structures is the Ball Court, the largest in all of Mesoamerica, with both cosmic and military significance. This space was used not only for the ritualistic ball game but also symbolized the eternal battle between the forces of good and evil, light and darkness. The most astonishing feature is its incredible acoustics, designed so that sounds are amplified with near-perfect precision, allowing the echoes of voices and shouts to resonate throughout the area. The date inscribed on this building is 864 AD, making it one of the oldest structures at Chichen Itza.
Beyond the Ruins: Light and Sound Show
A special way to conclude your visit to Chichen Itza is by attending the nightly light and sound show. During this event, the temples and pyramids come to life through a visual narrative that projects lights and shadows onto the ancient stones, while a voice narrates the story of the Maya and the mysteries of Chichen Itza. This show is not only an unforgettable visual experience but also a way to relive the grandeur of this civilization under the starry Yucatán sky.
North Group buildings:
- The Castle or temple of Kukulcan
- The Market
- The Steam Bath
- The Temple of the Warriors
- Platform of Venus
- The Sacred Cenote
- The Platform of Skulls
- Platform of Jaguars and Eagles
- The Ball Game
Central Group Buildings
- The Tuymba of the High Priest
- The Red House
- The Observatory
- The House of the Nuns
- The Church
- The Akab Dzib
- The Sculpted Boards
- The Cenote Xtoloc
Services in Chichen Itza
- Craft Market
- Restaurants
- Bathrooms
- Parking
- Library