A True Wonder

Chichen Itza is a large pre-Columbian archaeological site built by the Maya civilization located in the northern center of the Yucatan Peninsula, in the Yucatan state, present-day Mexico. Chichen Itza was a major regional focal point in the northern Maya lowlands from the Late Classic through the Terminal Classic and into the early portion of the Early Postclassic period. The site exhibits a multitude of architectural styles, from what is called "Mexicanized" and reminiscent of styles seen in central Mexico to the Puuc style found among the Puuc Maya of the northern lowlands.


Attractions

Driving our rental car into Yucatan state and passing through little towns along the way, we enter the archaeological site of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. We gaze upon the Pyramid of Kukulcan also known as "El Castillo" (The Castle) and ponder at the architectural marvel that would produce the natural phenomenon "of light and shadow". We enter Juego del Pelota (Ball Court), where legends say that the winning Capitan would present his own head to the losing Capitan, who then decapitates him. We spend the rest of the day passing from one site to another and imagining a day in the life of a Mayan at Chichen Itza.

Visited: 2006 (Honeymoon)


Quick Photos

Ball Court






Pyramid of Kukulcan






Temple of Warriors