The famous temple city known as Chichén Itzá was once the center of political and economic life for the people of the Mayan civilization. Its name derived from a Mayan phrase meaning “at the mouth of the well of the Itzá (people)”, this famous Mexican site is located in the northern center of the Yucatan Peninsula, within a few hours drive of the popular vacation resort, Cancun. Recently named one of the New 7 Wonders of the World, this unique Mayan archaeological site has become increasingly popular with tourists since the 1970s, when ownership of the site was turned over to the federal government of Mexico. When Cancun sprung up later that decade, thousands of travelers began making the trek to the site each year to experience the marvels of this World Heritage Site and, today, annual visitation is in the millions.
Chichén Itzá rose to prominence in about 600 AD and had become a major regional power by the 10th century. It is said that in the year 987 AD, a great Toltec king – Quetzalcoatl – came to the area with an army from Central Mexico and with the help of Mayan allies, chose Chichén Itzá as his capital. Quetzalcoatl’s arrival signified a new period of importance for the city of Chichén Itzá and it became a major player in the water-borne circum-peninsular trade route through its port site of Isla Cerritos. That means its citizens were able to obtain resources from other distant locations that were not to be found locally, especially gold.
Visitors to Chichén Itzá can tour a variety of archaeological treasures. The centerpiece is the Temple of Kukulcan - also known as El Castillo - a step pyramid that bears the Mayan name of Quetzalcoatl, with square terraces and staircases up each of the four sides. Statues of plumed serpents adorn the north staircase, and when the shadows are just right, they seem to slither down the steps! The Temple of the Warriors is another large step pyramid flanked by rows of carved columns depicting ancient warriors. It is similar to one found in the Toltec capital of Tula. Also at the site is what is believed to be seven ball courts that were used to play a unique Mesoamerican game. One is the largest in ancient Mesoamerica, measuring 545 by 232 feet. It is said that the captain of the team that scored first was beheaded as a sacrifice to the Gods! Also available for viewing is El Caracol - an observatory temple - and a complex of buildings known as Las Monjas (The Nuns), which served as a governmental palace. You’ll also see a mini version of El Castillo, called the Priest’s High Temple. Several outlying sites with a variety of additional buildings can also be explored. You also may want to explore the two remaining cenotes (or sink holes) that served as the water source for the community. Archaeologists have found scores of skeletons in the cenotes and Mayan petroglyphs depict human sacrifices at the sites.
It’s easy to find a guided bus tour of Chichén Itzá if you’re visiting Cancun or another area within driving distance of the site. Most hotels offer referrals for such tours or you can book one before you depart for Mexico. Chichén Itzá is very hot in the summer, so it’s certainly more comfortable to explore during the cooler months if you are able.
