Chitzen Itza is one of many fascinating Mayan archaeological sites in the Yucatan Peninsula. The name of this site actually means “the edge of the well of the Itzaes”. Between 750 and 1200 A.D. it served as the political and economic center of the Mayan civilization. The amazing buildings in Chichen Itza are still standing and they demonstrate the Mayas’ extraordinary commitment to architectural space and composition, as well as their vast astronomical knowledge. As reword for being so unique and able to survive through tough times, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988. What is more, it has been selected as one of the New 7 World Wonders. This all tells you that you really have to see this magnificent archeological site. It is located 125 miles from Cancun and 75 miles from Merida. It is good to know that there are several hotels there in case you want to come in Chichen Itza the day before and early start visiting the ruins, which is excellent idea since it can get hot and very crowded, latter during the day.
If I knew that you would not definitely go from Cancun the day I want to visit the site and come here in the hottest part of the day. According to average, one can spend from 3 hours to a full day here, depending how much you are interested in the ancient ruins and how much you were amazed when you saw them. Some will be disappointed when they here that you have to pay the admission fee and what is more there is an extra charge for use of video camera on the site. Another useful advice is to dress in natural fiber clothing that will protect you from sun and of course do not forget to wear comfortable shoes; there is a lot of walking to be done.
If you ever get the chance to go and visit Chichen Itza you should not miss the following features of Chichen Itza.
El Castillo – is known as the most striking building here. It is dedicated to Kukulkan, the Plumed Serpent. I have been lucky, and visited El Castillo on the spring equinox when the side of the building making a play of light and shadow which appears as a snake along the steps of the building. This also happens on the fall equinox.
Temple of the Warriors – here, the hundreds of columns surround a massive temple structure carved with reliefs. These columns are carved on all four sides with figures of feather-bedecked warriors.
Great Ballcourt – this ballcourt at 545 feet in length and 225 feet in width and as such it is the largest known ballcourt in Mesoamerica. What also makes this ballcourt fascinating is the the acoustics of the ballcourt, that are remarkable: a whisper from one end can be clearly heard at the other.
Most tourists visit the Chichen Itza as a day trip from Cancun or Merida, so take this into consideration when planning your time if you’re staying in one of those two places..
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