The Truth About Chichen Itza: Mexico’s Wonder of the World

In the Yucatan jungle, there is a site that can predict solar eclipses and hide amazing secrets. Imagine a lost city where a giant pyramid lines up perfectly with the stars, and people believed that human sacrifices kept the universe in balance. This is Chichen Itza, Mexico’s incredible window into the Mayan world. Every step takes you deeper into a place of stunning engineering, spine-chilling rituals, and cosmic mysteries that science can’t fully explain. Let’s explore the fascinating facts about Chichen Itza and its must-see attractions.

Chichen Itza isn’t just any archaeological site. It’s where science, religion, and power combine together to create one of the world’s most mysterious wonders. Watching it on screen is amazing, but seeing it in person is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

 

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Surprising facts about Chichen Itza

• It’s one of the largest Maya cities and most famous archaeological sites in Mexico. The area covers approximately 10 square km (4 square miles).
• Chichen Itza gets its name from nearby cenotes, limestone sinkholes, with permanent water. It comes from the Maya words “chi’,” which means “mouth” or “edge,” and “chʼen” or “chʼeʼen,” which means “well.” The name “Itzá” refers to the Maya tribe that settled here. Together, these words mean ‘‘At the edge of the Itzá’s well.”
• The city likely had one of the most diverse populations in the Maya world. This diversity may explain the variety of architectural styles found at the site.
• It’s home to the step pyramid, which is linked to the Maya calendar.
• Chichen Itza stands today as one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World. It’s also a UNESCO World Heritage site and remains an active archaeological site.

Most of the city’s original architecture still remains.

 

Quick History

Chichen Itza’s history stretches back over a thousand years, with many different cultures and civilizations leaving a mark on the city.

 

• The city’s exact beginnings are still uncertain. According to the UNESCO site, some sources place the city’s establishment in the early 400s AD. Others suggest it started in the middle of the 5th century. During this time, the town grew around an area called Chichen Viejo.
• Historians believe the city’s most important period began in the 10th century when Toltec warriors moved from central Mexico to the south. Scholars place the establishment of the city’s second settlement somewhere between 750 and 900 AD. As the story goes, the King of Tula, Ce Acatl Topiltzin Quetzalcoatl (known as Kukulkan to the Maya), conquered Chichen Itza in the 10th century. This event changed the city’s history, blending two powerful cultures and transforming it into a remarkable site we know today.

 

Chichen Itza showcases a perfect mix of Maya and Toltec traditions.

 

• As the city grew more powerful, other neighbouring cities weakened. Experts say the city reached its peak between 900 AD and 1050 AD, becoming a major regional capital.
• At its height, Chichen Itza was home to up to 50,000 people.
• After the 13th century, major construction stopped, and the city quickly declined around the 15th century.

 

After it declined, the jungle overtook this once-large city. Explorers rediscovered it in 1841, long after it had vanished from memory.

 

Don’t forget to bookmark this post about Chichen Itza so you can quickly find it when visiting these gorgeous ruins.

 

Suggested Itinerary: Things to do in Chichen Itza

Once you have your tickets, take a stroll along a path where you’ll find local vendors selling various souvenirs. After a short walk, you’ll reach the heart of the archaeological site.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

Chichen Itza is a large archaeological site with several areas to explore. Here are the main sections:

 

• Great North Platform: includes the monuments of the Temple of Kukulcan, the Temple of Warriors and the Great Ball Court. Many tourists focus on this area, but don’t miss these other sections:
• Group of a Thousand Columns
• Osario Group: includes the pyramid with the same name and the Temple of Xtoloc
• Central Group: You will find here the Caracol, Las Monjas, La Iglesia, and Akab Dzib
• Old Chichen (only open to archaeologists)
• Casa Colorada Group, and others.

 

1. Temple of Kukulcan

Chichen Itza has many constructions, but none is more spectacular than the Temple of Kukulkan. The first Spaniards identified the site’s highest and most famous structure as El Castillo. Many people regularly refer to this impressive pyramid as the castle.

While the Temple of Kukulcan is not the tallest pyramid built by the Maya (that title belongs to Nohoch Mul in Coba), it’s one of the best-preserved. It lies in a grassy plaza and stands out from its surroundings.

 

Purpose and Function

Rising to approximately 30 m (98ft), this glorious step pyramid with a 6 m (20ft) tall rectangular temple at the top served as a sacred space. The pre-Columbian Maya civilization built it somewhere between the 8th and 12th centuries. Experts believe the Maya built it in honour of the serpent deity Kukulcan. He was the Yucatec Maya Feathered Serpent god, a snake deity, a strong symbol of their religious community. The northeastern base even features carved snake heads – hence, its name the Temple of Kukulcan.

 

DID YOU KNOW?

Clap your hands at the base of the Kukulcan Pyramid, and you’ll hear something amazing. The sound doesn’t just bounce back – it echoes like the sacred Quetzal bird call. The Maya believed that the colourful bird was a messenger of the gods. This acoustic wonder shows how they perfectly blended science with spirituality.

 

Architectural features

Curious about what makes the Temple of Kukulcan special? This impressive structure showcases the Maya’s incredible skill in symmetry, design, and precision. The square-based pyramid has 9 shrinking terraces and each of the four sides has a sloping staircase. The pyramid doesn’t just have 365 steps–one for each day of the year. Each of the four sides has 91 steps, and when you add the top platform, the total is 365 steps. This design is an incredible display of the Maya’s advanced knowledge of time. The pyramid’s four stairways also represent the four points of a compass.

 

Spring and autumn equinoxes

A giant calendar: What if we told you the Temple of Kukulcan can make the sun dance and is a place where shadows tell time? No, this isn’t a scene from a fantasy novel, it’s a true testament to the astrological geniuses of the Maya people.

 

Did you know that the Maya could predict solar eclipses? During the spring and autumn equinoxes, you might be lucky to witness the spectacular phenomenon. At about 4 pm, the sun’s rays hit the pyramid at an angle that creates the snake shape. This illusion of a serpent sliding down the north face has come to life twice a year for over 1,000 years. This light and shadow illusion attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world.

 

Can you climb the pyramid in Chichen Itza in 2024?

Climbing the Kukulkan Pyramid and other ruins in Chichen Itza is off-limits after a tourist’s unfortunate death from slipping. Also, many of the monuments have rope barriers, and, therefore, it’s not possible to touch them. Archaeologists and local conservationists protect these structures’ delicate condition and ensure preservation for future generations.

 

Hiding secrets

The Temple of Kukulcan is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Mexico. But that is not just part of its appeal to tourists. The mystery is probably another reason why millions of visitors want to see it every year.

 

Did you know the Temple of Kukulkan is like a giant Russian nesting doll? Archaeologists have discovered not one, but two older pyramids hidden inside it. But that’s not all, they also found a secret cenote filled with water, right beneath the temple. These jaw-dropping discoveries show just how the pyramid served as a staircase that brought priests closer to the gods, but also a gateway to the underworld.

 

2. Venus Platform

Chichen Itza features two platforms of Venus, with this one being the larger. It’s just a short walk from El Castillo, near the road leading to the Sacred Cenote.

 

The Maya didn’t just observe Venus; they integrated it into their rituals and crucial decisions. The Platform of Venus stands out with its intricate carvings and remnants of vibrant colours-blue, red, green, and yellow. It has sloped walls and four staircases, one on each side. Experts believe this squared platform, adorned with snake heads, served as a ceremonial stage for rituals and dances.

 

3. Great Ball Court

The shape of the ball court stayed remarkably consistent for thousands of years. However, their size could differ widely.

 

Imagine an arena where the Maya used to play a game that was more than just a sport – it was a sacred ritual with life-and-death stakes. This is one of the 13 ballcourts for playing the Mesoamerican ballgame in Chichen Itza. It measures an astonishing 168 m (551 ft) long and 70 m (229 ft) wide, making it the largest ball court yet discovered.

 

Function and purposes

This impressive structure, with its long, narrow alley and sloping walls, was once the scene of intense competitions and dramatic events. The Great Ball Court was a sacred playground, where the players tried to hit a 5-kilogram (12-pound) rubber ball into small stone circles. The most shocking part? Stone rings were 9 m (30 ft) above the floor of the Great Ball Court and the players could only use their hips, elbows, and knees. Often games could stretch on for hours or even days, with a sacrifice of the captain of the winning team. While a human sacrifice to the gods may seem like a strange reward, the Maya believed it was the ultimate honour. 

 

DID YOU KNOW?

Two massive walls with sidewalks, limiting the court, have impressive carvings with sculpted panels of a team of ball players. Some of them show scenes of players in action. Others depict the dramatic moment of human sacrifice.

 

Architectural Marvel:

The Maya were acoustic engineering geniuses. One of the unique features of the court is that its two massive parallel walls are highly reflective. When clapped at the North Temple, the sound bounces off the walls in a way that creates echoes at the far South Temple. The Maya designed this acoustic feature to amplify the sound of the game. A whispering gallery allows communication between the temples, which are about 140 m (460 ft) apart.

 

A 3D reconstruction: The Upper Temple of the Jaguars is a perfect example of the Chichen Itza architectonic style. Inside, this temple boasts a mural painting with battle scenes.

 

4. Skull Platform

The Skull Platform, or Tzompantli, is another chilling yet fascinating structure. Situated near the Great Ball Court, this large platform features intricate skull carvings. It once served for a dramatic display of heads from defeated enemies and sacrificial victims. For the Maya, the Wall of Skulls was more than a symbol of power; it was an expression of their religious beliefs. The skulls on this striking structure vividly illustrated the Maya’s complex rituals and societal values, revealing their intense and unique approach to honouring their gods.

 

 

TIP:

Don’t miss the Platform of the Eagles from the Maya-Toltec era. It sits between the Temple of the Skulls and the Temple of Venus. This small platform boasts beautifully preserved paintings of human figures and animals. Eagles and jaguars represent warriors who captured people to sacrifice to the sun god.

the Platform of the Eagles

 

5. Sacred Cenote

 

The Sacred Cenote stands as one of the most crucial features of Chichen Itza. Experts suggest that the Maya chose this location because of this massive freshwater sinkhole. By arqueologiamexicana

 

The Yucatan Peninsula is world-famous for its cenotes-natural wells filled with fresh water. They’re vital due to the region’s lack of rivers or lakes. But not all cenotes are suitable for swimming. Here’s the shocking part: The Sacred Cenote, located at the northern end of this site, was especially significant to the Maya. They believed the rain god, Chac, lived at its depths. To gain his favour, the Maya threw precious items into the cenote, including gold, pottery, and sometimes even human sacrifices. Archaeologists have found thousands of these offerings and human remains at the bottom of the cenote. It reveals the cenote’s central role in Maya religious practices and ceremonies.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

• Today, this 60 m (197 ft) in diameter cenote is a popular attraction. You can reach it with a short 10-minute walk from the Kukulkan Pyramid. Along the shaded trail, you’ll find various stalls selling souvenirs.
• Swimming in the Sacred Cenote is not possible. Besides its sacred status, the water is green and murky, making it unsuitable for swimming.

 

6. Temple of Warriors

Just east of the iconic Temple of Kukulcan stands the Temple of Warriors, a grand pyramid with four platforms. A central stairway leads to a large temple at the top, surrounded by hundreds of stone columns. These carved columns represent Maya warriors, eternally guarding this sacred space.

 

The temple’s summit boasts the Chac Mool, a reclining figure that the Maya believed was a messenger of the gods. With a ball or plate resting on its front, this figure held sacred offerings. While it’s hard to spot from below, the Chac-Mool remains a powerful symbol of the temple’s spiritual importance.

 

7. Group of a Thousand Columns

Image a vast open space, once bustling with activity, surrounded by towering stone pillars. This is the Group of a Thousand Columns, a remarkable complex situated in front of and alongside the Temple of Warriors.

Hundreds of massive columns, intricately carved with Maya symbols and figures, stretch as far as you can see. These columns once supported a grand frieze and a roof, but sadly, these features have collapsed over time. Experts suggest that this impressive colonnade served as a major meeting hall. Other columns supported different structures, including the marketplace.

 

8. Xtoloc Cenote

Take one of the paths toward the Osario Group to discover the Xtoloc Cenote. Named after the Mayan word for “iguana”, which lives in the region, this cenote was the second-largest water source for the city. It played a crucial role as the primary water supply for the settlement. Overlooking the cenote is the recently reconstructed Temple of Xtoloc. The ruins of this probable sanctuary vividly depict images of people and scenes of nature, including birds and plants.

 

TIP:

Don’t miss the Maya House on your way to the Osario Group. This traditional structure is a perfect example of the region’s historical architecture. Built with minimal changes since pre-Hispanic times, it features an oblong shape covered with a mix of red dirt and fodder. The house also includes a distinctive palm-thatched roof, giving it an authentic appearance.

 

9. Ossuary

South of the North Group, you’ll find the Osario Group, which includes several structures toward the Xtoloc cenote. This group features one of the most significant buildings on the site: the Ossuary. This step pyramid, similar in design to its larger neighbour, the Temple of Kukulcan, has four sides with staircases leading up to a shrine at the top.

Here’s the shocking part: The Ossuary has a unique feature not found in many other pyramids.  Its central opening leads to the hidden natural cave 12 m (39ft) below, which connects to another cave. In the late 19th century, explorer Edward H. Thompson discovered the cave with seven tombs, including bone remains and ceramic objects. He called the structure ‘‘The High Priests’ Temple’’ because of these finds.

 

The Maya built this pyramid on top of a cave. Today, experts call it the Ossuary, believing it was a burial chamber. The pyramid also contains two underground passageways, both appear to have been sealed off centuries ago.

 

9. El Caracol

El Caracol provided the Maya with unobstructed views of the skies. Its name, meaning ‘’the snail’’, comes from the unique spiral staircase inside.

 

The Maya were keen astronomers despite lacking modern telescopes. They crafted sophisticated observatories to study the stars, and El Caracol is a prime example. This ancient structure, still visible at the site, resembles some modern-day observatories. It features a large platform with a circular building and an elevated cylindrical tower with a domed top.  

Here’s the astonishing part: Archaeologists date El Caracol to approximately 900 BC, making it one of the world’s oldest observatories. Its entrance is precisely aligned 27.5 degrees north of west, tracking Venus’s furthest northern position. But there’s more – the diagonal axis of the observatory aligns perfectly with the summer solstice sunrise and the winter solstice sunset. This precise alignment explains the Maya’s advanced understanding of celestial events and their importance to their culture.

 

10. Complex of the Nuns

Next to the observatory, you’ll find the Complex of the Nuns, also known as Las Monjas. This area lies at the edge of the site, just before you have to head back. The standout building here is the Nunnery. Spanish colonists named it this because they thought the layout resembled a convent. However, this impressive structure with a fragile central staircase was, in fact, a governmental palace.

 

The Complex of the Nuns includes several notable buildings:

• The Nunnery: A three-story building that features the Puuc architectural style, with influences from Chenes and Chichen styles. It has long inscriptions on the lintels and vibrant mural paintings.
• La Iglesia: Mistaken by Spaniards as a church, this small, one-room building has a rectangular floor plan and stunning decorations, including elaborate masks.
• Carved Boards: Another important structure within the complex, showcasing detailed carvings.

 

 

Now you know what the best things to do in Chichen Itza are!

 

Useful Information

 

Opening Times

Chichen Itza Ruins are open daily from 8 am to 5 pm, 365 days a year. The last entry to see the ruins is at 4 pm sharp, as of August 2024. For a more tranquil experience, avoid weekends, and visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon before bus tours arrive.

 

November until March is an ideal time to visit, avoiding soaring temperatures and the rainy season. Between April and September, temperatures reach over 34 °C (93°F), with higher humidity and more rainy days. Keep this in mind if you struggle with heat.

 

Visiting Time Required: 2.5 hours up to 3 hours

 

Chichen Itza Entry Fee in 2024:

Entry tickets for adult visitors (over 13 years) to Chichen Itza cost 614 MXN (USD 32), as of August 2024. The entrance fee consists of two parts – the federal and the state fee. To enter the site, you must present both tickets, which you can purchase in the windows next to each other.

However, the cost varies for Mexican citizens 272 MXN and locals (Yucatan ID) 90 MXN. Entry for both of them is free on Sundays for Mexican citizens and foreigners with residence in Mexico).

 

PARKING:

• If arriving by car, expect to pay 80 MXN (USD 4.20) for parking, as of August 2024. There are numerous car parks available for the same price. Remember to bring enough Mexican pesos in cash, as they don’t accept debit/credit cards.
• PARKING SCAM: During our visit in July 2024, we realised there was a parking scam in Chichen Itza. Individuals posing as officials stopped us, on numerous occasions, claiming that the main car park was closed due to construction and that the other was full. They directed us to park on the outskirts, offering a shuttle bus to the site, along with supposed priority tickets and a buffet deal. They warned that without this, we’d have to walk 20 minutes and wait 40 minutes to purchase tickets at the site. This is a scam – the tickets are invalid, and the walk from the other nearby car parks took us only 5 minutes. Fortunately, we didn’t fall for it. Beware, as these scammers appear every few meters and they always stop you.

 

 

Chichen Itza Tips

1. Entry Fee: You must buy two tickets at separate windows (federal and state fees) to enter.
2. Bring Cash: Make sure to have enough Mexican pesos with you.
3. Luggage: Rent a locker if you have large bags.
4. Timing: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. Bus tours start around 10 am.
5. Avoid Peak Times: Skip Sundays, national holidays, and busy seasons like Christmas and Easter. Mexican citizens get cheaper entry on Sundays, so it gets crowded.
6. Light Show: The Chichen Itza Light Show is half-price on Sunday nights. Book early for good seats.
7. No Climbing: Climbing the pyramid and other structures is not possible due to the conservation.
8. No Swimming: You can’t swim in the cenotes within the archaeological site.
9. Dress Comfortably: Wear comfy shoes, and a sun hat, and be ready to walk in the heat.

• Eco-Friendly: Use biodegradable sunscreen and mosquito repellent to protect the environment.
• Hire a Guide: A local guide can enhance your visit with their knowledge and support the community.
• Explore More: Don’t just see the Kukulkan Pyramid and the structures around it. There’s much more to discover.
• Get ready for hundreds of vendors who set up their shop with souvenirs within the complex.
• Tripods are allowed to be used only with a special permit which you need to arrange in advance.
• Stay overnight. It’s possible to visit the ruins from Cancun or Riviera Maya. A drive-by car is min 2 ½ hrs. However, for a better experience, consider spending a night in nearby Valladolid or Piste town.

 

How To Get There

 

1. Chichen Itza Tours

The easiest way to reach Chichen Itza is by taking a guided bus tour. These tours are available from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and other spots in the Riviera Maya. This option is perfect if you want a hassle-free trip without worrying about driving.

• TOURS FROM CANCUN: 

 

 

• TOUR FROM PLAYA DEL CARMEN:

 

2. Rental Car

If you’re comfortable driving in Mexico, renting a car is a perfect option. It gives you the flexibility to explore the Yucatan Peninsula at your own pace and arrive at Chichen Itza before the bus tours, allowing for a quieter visit.

 

TIPS:

• There aren’t many gas stations on the highway, so fill up your tank before you go.
• Also, don’t forget to carry enough Mexican pesos for a toll fee. They accept only cash, and there are no ATMs along the highways.

 

3. Public Transport (ADO Buses)

If you prefer public transport, the ADO bus from downtown Cancun to Chichen Itza departs once a day at 8:45 am, taking about three hours. Alternatively, you can take an ADO bus to Valladolid and catch another bus from there.

 

BOOK YOUR ONCE-IN-A-LIFETIME EXPERIENCE IN CHICHEN ITZA BELOW:

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Is this famous UNESCO site one you’ve explored before, or is it still on your travel bucket list?

 

 

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Last updated: 14/08/2024

 

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