Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza: A World Wonder without a doubt
The site covers an area of 15.5 km2 (6 sq mi). It is primarily a combination of Toltec and Mayan breathtaking architecture. The buildings contained in this site were formerly used as temples, palaces, stages, markets, baths and ball courts. The Caracol or the snail is one of the buildings you can find in Chichen Itza, it is called this way because of its round shape and the stone spiral staircase inside and its also known as the Observatory due to some astral associations in its architecture. Another important construction at this site is the Juego de Pelota, the largest ball court in Mesoamerica. It measures 168 meters (554 feet) in length and 70 meters (231 feet) in width. The Ball Game was a sport with ritual associations, each team had six field players who would pass the ball using any body part to their captain the captain that made the first successful shot using a racket was then decapitated as a sacrifice to the gods. This was seen as an honor and guaranteed entrance into heaven.

Chichen Itzas main feature is the majestic Pyramid of Kukulkan, was recently declared one of the New 7 Wonders of the World at the Official Declaration Ceremony on 07.07.2007 in Lisbon, after more than 100 million votes were cast worldwide. The Pyramid of Kukucan, also known as the Castle of the Feathered Serpent was the last, and perhaps the greatest of all Mayan temples. The feathered serpent (Kukulcan) is a popular deity in various Mesoamerican cultures. This stunning building is a four sided pyramid each side is 60 meters (197 feet) wide. Around 24 meters (79 feet) from the ground, the uppermost part is crowned by a temple. The pyramid combines both theology and astronomy to produce a unique spectacle twice a year, the Spring Equinox and the Autumn Solstice, days when the shadows projected over the architectonic elements of the building resemble a serpent (Kukulkan) descending to the ground.

Breathtaking Chichen Itza holds both magic and mystery
In Chichen Itzas surrounding areas you will find accessible caves with large caverns, narrow canals and many hidden mysteries. The Cenote Sagrado (Sacred Sinkhole) is a worthy example of the magic surrounding this ancient city. It was the heart of religious activities not only for the city of Chichen Itza but for the entire Mayan region. As part of the cult dedicted to the rain god Chaak, the Maya sacrificed mainly precious objects into the cenote.

At night Chichen Itza offers a wonderful light and sound show that is a truly unique experience to remember, the experience of a lifetime. Sitting in front of the sites temples you can learn more about Mayan culture while you enjoy the magic of the night. The Night of the Maya narrates the founding and splendor of the ancient city and chronicles the wars that were carried out against other Mayan people. Besides the solar equinox, which occurs during the day, at night another phenomenon can be observed at the Pyramid of Kukulcan during the full moon. This phenomenon is called the lunar equinox in which the visual play of light and shadow shows once again the descent of Kukulcan.

For those looking for an incomparable experience, Chichen Itza is the ideal site not only for those who enjoy archaeology, but also for those who like history and the charm of ancient civilizations. Chichen Itza is one of the most impressive testimonials of the Mayan civilization of Yucatan where magic coexists with its prodigious culture making it an intriguing, glorious and unforgettable destination.