Chichen Itza is much more than just one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World. This ancient Mayan city continues to surprise everyone with its incredible precision, profound history, and rich symbolism. If you’re planning a visit or simply want to learn more about it, get ready to be amazed by these facts that will make you see it with new eyes.
1. It’s Not Just One Pyramid
When we think of Chichen Itza, the first thing that comes to mind is the imposing Temple of Kukulkan, also known as El Castillo. But the archaeological site is much, much larger. It’s a complete city that includes temples, cenotes, an observatory, and even a massive ball game court. Each structure was built with very specific astronomical, political, and religious purposes.
2. It’s Perfectly Aligned with the Sun
The Temple of Kukulkan is world-famous for the equinox phenomenon. Twice a year, during the spring and autumn equinoxes, the shadow projected onto the stairway appears to form the body of a serpent descending from the top, culminating in the head of Kukulkan at the base. This astonishing precision demonstrates the Mayans’ vast astronomical knowledge.
3. Its Name Has a Deep Meaning
The name “Chichen Itza” means “mouth of the well of the Itzaes” in the Mayan language. The “well” refers to the Sacred Cenote, a crucial place where important rituals and offerings were performed. The Itza people were one of the most influential and powerful civilizations on the Yucatán Peninsula.
4. The Sound is Engineered
Did you know that Chichen Itza’s architecture is also an acoustic marvel? If you clap your hands in front of the temple’s steps, the echoing sound surprisingly resembles the call of a quetzal, a sacred bird for the Mayans. This acoustic effect is just one of many architectural details that reveal their advanced level of knowledge.
5. It Has a Calendar Carved in Stone
The Kukulkan pyramid isn’t just impressive due to its size; every one of its elements has a deep calendrical meaning. It features 365 steps (one for each day of the solar year), 52 panels representing the 52-year cycles of the Mayan calendar, and 9 platforms on each side divided by a central staircase, totaling 18 sections per side, symbolizing the 18 months of the Mayan calendar.
6. The Ball Court is the Largest in Mesoamerica
The Great Ball Court at Chichen Itza is the largest known in all of Mesoamerica, measuring an impressive 168 meters (551 feet) long. Its acoustics are so perfect that you can hear a clear conversation between players located at opposite ends of the court. It’s believed that these games weren’t just a sport, but had a very important ritualistic and symbolic component.
7. It’s a World Heritage Site and One of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World
Chichen Itza’s grandeur has been recognized globally. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1988, and in 2007, it earned its place among the New 7 Wonders of the World, an acknowledgment granted by global vote.
Essential Tips if You’re Visiting Chichen Itza
- Arrive early: The heat and crowds typically increase significantly after noon. An early morning visit is much more pleasant!
- Buy your tickets in advance: You’ll save yourself long lines and valuable waiting time.
- Wear cool clothing and comfortable shoes: The tour around the site is extensive and largely under the sun.
- Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen: There are few shaded areas on the site, so be well-prepared.
- How to get there? You can easily reach Chichen Itza from Cancun or Merida via organized tours or by private car. Many agencies offer daily departures
Have you experienced this wonder yet?
If you haven’t visited Chichen Itza, maybe it’s time to add it to your bucket list!
And if you’re flying out of Cancun, remember that the VIP Lounges by MERA are waiting for you before your flight: comfortable spaces, complimentary snacks, and Wi-Fi to share your Chichen Itza photos in real-time.
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