Chichén Itzá

History

“Mouth of the well of the Itzaes”, the meaning of one of the most famous and controversial urban centers of the Mayan world which remains standing today, to the amazement of the entire world. It is one of the most impressive testimonials of the Mayan civilization of Yucatan which sets this city apart.

At the height of its glory it was the most powerful city on the Yucatan peninsula. Among its most remarkable buildings are the Temple of the Warriors, the Group of the Thousand Columns, the Platform of Venus, the Tzompantli, the Ball Game, the Snail or Observatory and the Temple.

It would be unforgivable not to mention the spectacular Pyramid of Kukulcán which, by virtue of its size alone, is stunning to visitors. It is a four-sided pyramid some 30 meters high, crowned by a temple on the uppermost part. The body is actually two structures in one, each corresponding to a different era; the more recent is virtually built on top of the older one. Inside the pyramid is a statue of Chac Mool and a red-painted throne in the form of a jaguar. The pyramid is believed to represent the Mayan calendar: each step is a day of the year, so given that each side has 91 steps a simple multiplication gives 364, add 1 for the platform at the top, and you have the 365 days of the solar year, which explains why it is thought to have been built in honor of the sun god. The magical-astronomical nature of this structure is evident: the “Feathered Serpent” descends the steps punctually every equinox, in a phenomenon of light and shadow that attracts thousands of visitors from around the world every year.

The sacred cenote was the heart of religious activities not only for the city of Chichén, but for the entire Mayan region. As part of the cult dedicated to the god of water, the Maya threw ceremonial offerings consisting mainly of precious items into the depths. Objects made from gold, jade, copper, cloth and basketwork have been recovered from the murky floor.

So great was the city’s power that centuries after its decline it was occupied sporadically for the celebration of certain religious ceremonies and then left forgotten in the jungle.

Centuries passed before explorers marveling at the pre-hispanic remains which gave a glimpse into a mysterious past began the rescue of the metropolis buried under trees and brush. The discoveries have not ceased since.

For those looking for an incomparable experience, Chichén Itzá is a wonderful, magical place to coexist with its prodigious culture and immerse in an intriguing, glorious and unforgettable world.