Chichen-Itza

Chichen-Itza, an ancient Mayan city in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, is one of the most visited archaeological sites in North America. The site includes the step pyramid El Castillo, the Great Ball Court, and the Temple of Warriors. As you explore this UNESCO World Heritage site, you'll see stone carvings, evidence of astronomical calculations, and remains of a large urban center that was active over a thousand years ago.

El Castillo: The Heart of Chichen-Itza

El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulcan, is 79 feet (24 meters) tall and sits in the Main Plaza. This step pyramid has 365 steps, one for each day of the year. During the spring and autumn equinoxes, the setting sun creates a shadow illusion of a serpent descending the northern staircase. This effect demonstrates the Mayans' knowledge of astronomy and architecture.

The Great Ball Court: Ancient Sport Arena

Northwest of El Castillo is the Great Ball Court, measuring 545 feet (166 meters) long and 223 feet (68 meters) wide. It's the largest ball court in ancient Mesoamerica. Players had to hit a heavy rubber ball through stone rings using only their hips and knees. Stone carvings along the walls show players, and some historians think the game had ritual importance, possibly ending in human sacrifice.

Temple of Warriors: A Thousand Columns

The Temple of Warriors is a stepped pyramid with rows of carved columns in front. These columns once held up a large roof system. Nearby, you'll find the Group of a Thousand Columns, which may have been a large marketplace or gathering space.

Astronomical Marvels: El Caracol

El Caracol, or "the snail" in Spanish, was an astronomical observatory. Its round shape and spiral staircase make it different from other structures. Mayans used this building to track celestial events, including the movements of Venus, which was important to their calendar and religious beliefs.

Visiting Chichen-Itza: Practical Information

Chichen-Itza is open daily from 8 am to 5 pm, with the last entry at 4 pm. Admission costs 613 MXN for adults and 90 MXN for children under 12. To avoid crowds and strong midday heat, arrive early in the morning. Bring water, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be walking a lot.

Getting to Chichen-Itza

You can reach Chichen-Itza by car, bus, or organized tour from Cancun, Merida, or Tulum. It's about a 2.5-hour drive from Cancun or Merida. If you're driving, take the toll road for a faster, smoother journey. Many visitors combine their trip with a stop at nearby cenotes or the colonial town of Valladolid.

Exploring the Site: Tips for Visitors

You can't climb the structures anymore to protect them from damage, but you can still get close to see the carvings and architectural details. Consider hiring a guide to learn about the site's history and importance. The site is large, so plan for at least 3-4 hours to explore thoroughly. Remember to bring cash, as credit card machines can be unreliable.