The Maya have long awakened travelers’ curiosity on account of the many mysteries enshrouding this pre-Hispanic civilization. For one thing, the city of in was abandoned by its inhabitants – seemingly without explanation – centuries before the Spaniards arrived at the shores that would one day become the .
The connection between the Maya and their spirituality, water, and their notion of the underworld has inspired many legends that archaeologists have investigated; several of these have proven true, leading to a deeper understanding of this rich culture.
The Temple of Kukulcan, also known as , is on many travel bucket lists, having been named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. However, it is the entire complex that exceeds travelers’ expectations. Here’s more about Chichén Itzá’s history and significance to help you get the most out of your visit.
What is Chichén Itzá?
Chichén Itzá is a city inhabited by the Maya from around 550 to 1200 CE, although estimates vary significantly. While the Temple of Kukulcan is its most famous structure, it is certainly not the only pyramid or fascinating building in the compound. Its sheer size distinguishes it from other archaeological sites. Currently, it occupies about 4 sq miles (10 sq km), but its original size was likely closer to 10 sq miles (25 sq km). Therefore, many more structures could be hidden beneath the jungle. At its peak, the city was home to approximately 35,000 people.
Archaeologists believe that a “sacred geography” guided the Maya in their design of Chichén Itzá. There appears to be a correlation throughout Mesoamerica between the landscape beneath the earth’s surface and the Maya constructions above it. Structures were often built near caves, tunnels, or .
Caves held significant importance in the Maya cosmos, representing eternal darkness where important deities resided. Consequently, if balance was not maintained, misfortune could ensue. On the other hand, when order was maintained, the land would be rewarded with resources like rain. For instance, is built directly over a natural cavern.
Special Features at Chichén Itzá
El Castillo
The Temple of Kukulcan, commonly referred to as El Castillo (“The Castle”), is the key building at Chichén Itzá. Standing at 24 meters high, it comprises a total of 365 steps—one for each day of the year. The temple itself is located at the summit, and studies suggest that there might be a large body of water beneath it, which is presumed to be a cenote.
El Caracol
Known as “The Snail” due to the spiral shape hidden within, is believed to be an observatory, primarily dedicated to astronomy. Openings in its walls and dome align with Venus and other stars on specific dates. Interestingly, the Maya carried out their observations without any tools.
Temple of the Warriors
The Temple of the Warriors features columns on the south and west sides intricately carved with images of Toltec warriors, highlighting the Toltec influence at the site. A sculpture of Chacmool, the Maya god of rain, is also present here.
The Ball Court
is considered the largest in the Americas. The game played by the Maya resembled modern-day soccer, but the ball was made of hard rubber and weighed approximately 8 lbs (4 kg). Players could only use their hips and thighs to touch the ball. Legend has it that one of the teams might have been sacrificed after the game, but it remains uncertain whether it was the winning or losing team.
Sacred Cenote
was believed to be an entrance to the underworld. For the Maya, water was the vital link between life and the spiritual world. Although it was traditionally thought to be a site where female virgins were sacrificed to the gods, studies indicate remains of males and children were also found, suggesting it may have served as an underwater cemetery where families honored their dead, in addition to being a sacrificial location.
What Does Its Name Mean?
Considering the religious significance of cenotes, which were the area’s sole water source, it’s unsurprising that the two sinkholes nearby likely inspired the name Chichén Itzá. According to Encyclopaedia Britannica, “Chi” means “mouths,” “chen” means “wells,” and Itzá refers to the Maya tribe that settled in the region.
The less literal translation is believed to be “At the edge of the well of the Itzaes,” which is also fitting.
Chichén Itzá’s Connection to Spirituality and Astronomy
The Temple of Kukulcan derives its name from the principal god of the Maya, Kukulcan, who is believed to represent Quetzalcoatl, the “feathered snake god” honored by the Aztec and the Toltec.
Kukulcan is central to one of the most significant events in Maya culture: a light and shadow effect orchestrated by pre-Hispanic architects based on the stars’ positions. During each equinox, a light show representing Kukulcan fertilizing the earth and descending into the underworld can be observed for about 45 minutes at the northern end of El Castillo. Undoubtedly, this spectacular phenomenon showcases the Maya’s astronomical knowledge and is one of the busiest times to visit Chichén Itzá.
Planning Your Trip to Chichén Itzá
Chichén Itzá is currently closed due to . Its reopening depends on the guidelines set by the Mexican federal government, which follow a traffic light-style labeling system based on hospital saturation in each state. Therefore, check the official Chichén Itzá website before planning your visit.
Best Time to Go
If you’d like to experience the light and shadow display, plan to visit on March 21 or September 22; however, prepare for large crowds. The heat remains consistent year-round, but temperatures are slightly cooler from November to January. To enjoy some solitude and capture pristine photographs, arrive early (the site opens at 8 AM daily) and leave by noon, as that’s when most tour buses typically arrive.
Entry Cost
Foreigners: MEX$481 (around US$22; £17); nationals: MEX$202 (around US$9; £7).
How to Get There
Chichén Itzá is located 26 miles (42 km) from ; 76 miles (122 km) from ; and 124 miles (200 km) from .
Insider Tips
– Consider picking up a few handicrafts at the numerous stalls in Chichén Itzá.
– End your day with a refreshing swim at the nearby Ik Kil cenote. While it’s a stunning location, it’s well known, so arriving early at Chichén Itzá will help you beat the crowds at Ik Kil. This is an ideal way to cool off after spending a day exploring under the sun.
