The History of Chichén Itzá

Are you itching to explore the mysteries of the ancient Mayan civilization? Look no further than Chichén Itzá, the iconic archaeological site located in the heart of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula!

Chichén Itzá is an archaeological site located in the eastern region of the Yucatan Peninsula, in Mexico. It is one of the most visited sites in the country and is considered to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. During my visit, I can't describe how fantastic it was to see this wonder with my very own eyes, but let me give you the history deets!

History

Chichén Itzá was one of the largest and most prominent Mayan cities that existed in the pre-Columbian era. Its origins date back to the 6th century AD when it was established as a small agricultural village. However, it wasn't until the 10th century AD that Chichén Itzá became a major center of political, economic, and cultural power in the Mayan civilization.

At its peak, Chichen Itza was home to approximately 50,000 inhabitants and was known for its impressive architectural achievements. It was a hub for trade, art, religion, and science, and attracted visitors from neighboring regions and beyond.

In the 13th century, Chichen Itza went into decline due to internal conflicts and external pressures, such as droughts and invasion by other tribes. By the time the Spanish arrived in the 16th century, the city had been abandoned and was overtaken by the jungle.

Significance

First of all, Chichén Itzá is a testament to the ingenuity and sophistication of the Mayan civilization. The city features a variety of architectural styles, including the Puuc, Toltec, and Chenes styles, which are a testament to the diverse influences that shaped the city.

Second, it's known for its astronomical and mathematical knowledge, which I find to be incredbile! The most famous example of this is the Kukulcan Pyramid, also known as El Castillo. The pyramid is aligned with the movements of the sun and casts a shadow on the equinoxes that resembles a serpent descending the steps of the pyramid. How awesome is that?!

For the Mayan culture, Chichén Itzá was an important center of worship and pilgrimage. The city features a variety of temples, altars, and other religious structures, including the Temple of the Warriors, the Great Ballcourt, and the Observatory. I can honestly say, that I could feel a "presence" within the area that I will never forget. 🫣

Features

Chichen Itza is a sprawling site that covers an area of approximately 6 square miles. Some of the most notable features of the site include:

• El Castillo: This is the most iconic structure at Chichen Itza. The pyramid stands 98 feet tall and features a series of terraces, each with its own set of stairs.

• The Great Ballcourt: This is the largest ballcourt in Mesoamerica and was used for playing the Mesoamerican ballgame, which was a combination of basketball and soccer.

• Temple of the Warriors: This temple features a series of columns carved in the shape of warriors and was likely used for ceremonies and worship.

• Observatory: This structure is a circular tower that was used for astronomical observations.

• Cenote Sagrado: This is a natural sinkhole that was used for sacrificial offerings to the gods.

Chichen Itza is a remarkable archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the complex and sophisticated Mayan civilization. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and architecture. I highly recommend going to visit Chichén Itzá if you are in the Cancun or Playa Del Carmen area. Check out my previous post that gives all the tips on how to manuever through Chichén!