The Pyramid of Chichen Itza: One of the New 7 Wonders of the World
Are you planning a vacation in Mexico and unsure where to go? We have the answer for you! In this article, we will tell you about Chichen Itza, an impressive archaeological site that you cannot miss when visiting the state of Yucatan.
Chichen Itza is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Mexico, located on the Yucatan Peninsula. It is an ancient Mayan city that was built between the 9th and 12th centuries. Since 1988, Chichen Itza has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and in 2007, it was named one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.
History of Chichen Itza
The history of Chichen Itza dates back to the pre-Columbian era when it was founded by the Mayans. The site was abandoned by the Mayans after the Spanish conquest and remained forgotten for centuries. It was rediscovered in the 19th century and has since been the subject of study and restoration.
What to see in Chichen Itza?
Chichen Itza boasts numerous impressive structures that will leave you in awe. Here are some of the most notable ones:
Pyramid of Kukulcan: This is the most famous structure in Chichen Itza and one of the most important in Mayan culture. It is also known as El Castillo and is located in the center of the archaeological complex. It is one of the New 7 Wonders of the World. This impressive stone structure is adorned with feathered serpents and is considered a representation of the Mayan calendar. Every year, during the spring and fall equinox, you can witness the spectacle of shadows descending down the pyramid, symbolizing the feathered serpent.
The Observatory (El Caracol): It is an astronomical observatory used by the Mayans to study the stars. It is an impressive structure that features a steep staircase and a round dome. The ancient Mayans were experts in astronomy, and they used El Caracol to make observations of the night sky.
The Ball Court (Juego de Pelota): It is a court where the Mayans played a ritual game with religious and political connotations. It is an impressive structure that features two stone rings and an elevated platform. This is the largest ball court in all of Mesoamerica and one of the largest of its kind in the ancient world.
Sacred Cenote: It is a natural freshwater pool that was used by the Mayans for religious rituals. The Cenote of Chichen Itza is an impressive structure with crystal-clear waters surrounded by vegetation.
Why is it worth visiting Chichen Itza?
Chichen Itza is an awe-inspiring place that will leave you breathless. It is one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico and the world. Additionally, it features a wealth of impressive structures that are a testament to the rich Mayan culture.
In Chichen Itza, you can learn about the history of the Mayans and their way of life. At the same time, you can enjoy a magical and mystical ambiance that will transport you to another era.
Apart from these impressive monuments, Chichen Itza also features temples, platforms, and other ancient buildings that are fascinating to explore. The site also has several cenotes, which are natural freshwater sinkholes that have been used for centuries as water sources and sacred sites for the Mayans.
Conclusion
In summary, Chichen Itza is an impressive place that you cannot miss on your visit to Mexico. It boasts a wealth of impressive structures that are a testament to the rich Mayan culture. Moreover, you can enjoy a magical and mystical ambiance that will transport you to another era. The surrounding area of Chichen Itza offers many options for those seeking authentic experiences, such as local food and artisan markets. There is also a wide variety of accommodation options in the area, ranging from luxury hotels to more budget-friendly choices.
If you are planning a vacation in Mexico, don’t hesitate to visit Chichen Itza. This place will transport you to a bygone era and allow you to explore the Mayan culture and history as if you were there. We assure you that you won’t regret it!
