From Bullfighting to great Taqila shots, being recognized for many ancient civilizations to renowned World Heritage sites, Mexico has gained so much popularity around the globe that it doesn’t need any introduction. Mexico has it all, from ancient civilizations to new resorts, postcard-worthy white sand beaches, stunning Mayan ruins and lots of adventure activities whatever a vacationer desires. One such world heritage site is Chichen Itza- the Seven Wonders of the World that is in Mexico. It has attained more fame as an archaeological site as well as being a tourist attraction.
On a visit to Cancun, it is a must-see spot. Let’s explore this world heritage site via our blog, stay connected and keep reading!
A Quick Tour of Mayan Civilization
The Maya originated about 3,000 years ago today it represents the regions of Guatemala, Honduras, Belize and Mexico. In the southern regions, the Mayan Empire thrived from around 250 AD to 900 AD but collapsed till soon. But Yucatan developed until the Spanish conquest of the 16th century AD. The Mayans have highly skilled farmers and workers, they also originated an advanced written language; some believed it was the first written American language.
They also developed a well-ordered transport infrastructure that was commercialized through a city network. They used mathematical and celestial observations to fine-tune a calendar of Olmec, a Mexican Gulf Coast civilization, and create monuments for observing and remembering the transitions of the moon, the sun and venus. Today, Chichen Itza offers an impressive example of Mayan Civilization.
Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza got this much recognition when it was declared as new seven wonders of the world in 2007, before that it was popular for Mayan Ruins. Chichen Itza is the most famous Maya archaeological site which is situated in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. This historical and ancient site served between 750 and 1200 A.D as a political and economic hub for the Mayan civilization.
When you visit Chichen Itza, you will learn about the ancient importance of the ruins and admire the beautiful architectural brilliance of Mayan. As these remarkable buildings show the exceptional use of architectural design by the Mayan civilization, the extensive scientific expertise, as well as its acute sense of creativity. These ruins are one of the most prominent attractions of Mexico and can be easily accessible from nearby towns of Cancun.
History Associated With Chichen Itza
The name of Chichen Itza implies “at the mouth of the Itza well.”Chichen Itza was one of the largest Mayan pre-Columbian cities inhabited between 400 AD to 1200 AD. The city had been abandoned even before Spanish people arrived. Some historians say that over-population caused the Maya people ran out of resources, others believed the war has wiped out the city. This pre-Columbian town had been the major regional economic power and obtained resources such as ores and gold, because of its location and port at Isla Cerritos. While the exact reason for the decrease is unclear, the city was not abandoned completely, even when trade slowed down and Chichen Itza lost prominence.
Also Read: Machu Picchu – Most Fascinating Ancient Site of Peru
Design Brief of Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza was specifically planned and built, and temples and pyramids in sets of clusters were constructed by builders. The Great North Platform, the Ossario Group, the Central Group, and the Old Chichen are four well-known clusters which are not publicly available. The Great North Platform is home to Chichen Itza’s most famous sites, including the Pyramid of Kukulkan, the Great Ball Court and the Jaguar Temple.
Top Attractions of Chichen Itza
The ruin site itself is very extended and well managed so that all the surrounding structures are easily accessible. The Maya Jungle Reserve and Hacienda Chichen’s Bird Refuge camp gives tourists an amazing bird watching experience. The popular attraction you can see includes El Castillo Maya temple in the form of a pyramid, Sacred Cenote, El Caracol which is famous for the observatory and a theme park for trying adventure stuff. Let’s discuss them briefly.
El Castillo Pyramid, Chichen Itza
The Kukulkan Pyramid in Chichen-Itza which known as El Castillo, it is one of the most famous structures of Chichen Itza. This stunning & massive pyramid stands right in the middle of the courtyard a short walk from the entrance.
The 30m tall pyramid is impressive not only for its look but also for the connection with the Mayan belief system and astrology. The pyramid has four sides like a compass, each side has 91 steps and a platform on the top.
Sacred Cenote, Chichen Itza
The Sacred Cenote refers to a famed cenote at the archaeological site of the pre-Columbian Maya located at the residential area of Chichen Itza. The pre-Columbian Mayas sacrificed to the cenote artefacts and to Maya rain god Chaac, according to sources.
Many artifacts of gold, jade, pottery, and incense, as well as human remains, were found there. Sacred Cenote was a place of pilgrimage for ancient Maya people. It was also believed that the sacrifice of human life was part of the offerings made their god on many occasions.
El Caracol
El Caracol is a remarkable observatory located at the site of Chichen Itza pre-Columbian Mayas. The name El Caracol means snail in Spanish, it is named after the spiral staircase within the structure. This building is dated from AD 600 to AD 850. The tower is 48 feet high, with several windows allowing the observation of the equinoxes and the summer solstice.
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This tower sits high & offers excellent amazing views of the skies and the surrounding landscape. In particular, it seems to be closely associated with the movements of Venus. Venus had immense meaning for the Mayan community; this bright planet was considered a god of war and a twin of the sun. Mayan leaders used Venus’ shifting position to schedule suitable times for combat and attacks.
Cenote Ik Kil
The Spanish definition of Cenote Ik Kil is a large sinkhole which is sacred to the Mayans. It is situated on the Yucatan peninsula’s northern side, which forms part of the archaeological park Ik Kil close to Chichen Itza. The whole year round it is open for the public to swim. There is also a theme park for some adventure activity near the area.
So this is all about Chichen Itza, these spectacular ancient Mayan ruins will be the highlight of your trip whenever you will tour Mexico.
Also Read: Seven Wonders Of The World: Epitome Of Beauty, Culture & Diversity
