Visit The Pyramids Of Chichen Itza Mexico

Chichen Itza boasts many fine examples of Mayan temples, palaces, stages, markets, baths, and ballcourts spread over an area of about four square miles.

The centre piece of the settlement that was Chichen Itza is the Pyramid of Kukulkán. At 80 feet it is the tallest structure at the site and has undergone restoration on two of its four sides.

Two other stepped pyramids can also be found at Chichen Itza, but neither have been restored.

Ball courts are another common feature of Mayan towns and cities and Chichen Itza has seven, including the largest of its kind in the Maya world. Carvings in this court indicate that the captain of the losing team was beheaded by the opposing victorious captain. It is said that the game was played as a way of settling disputes and that to be sacrificed in this way was a great honour!

The Maya Chronicles record that in 1221 a revolt and civil war broke out, and archeological evidence confirms that the wooden roofs of the great market and the Temple of the Warriors were burnt at about this date.

Chichen Itza went into decline soon afterwards and although never completely abandoned, the population declined.

The ruins of Chichen Itza can be found on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, home to the tourist resorts of Cancun, Cozumel and the Mayan Riviera. So if you are holidaying in that part of Mexico, the pyramids of Chichen Itza are a must see on any itinerary.

The ruins are a few hours drive along the new motorway from Cancún and are most visited site in the Yukatán. A large visitors’ complex with cafeterias, toilet facilities, shops and a museum has been build at the entrance to Chichen Itza so tourists are well catered for.

Not surprisingly, it can get very crowded. The tour buses arrive around 10-11am, so if at all possible try to get there before the masses and as soon after the 8am opening as possible. This will give you time to climb the Pyramid of Kukulkán before it gets too hot and will allow you to view the whole site before the crowds arrive.

Alternatively, leave your visit until later in the day when the buses have headed back to the coast.

Ideally, you will need two days for a good understanding of the site which covers four square miles. If you can, stay overnight near the site and enjoy the wonderful light and sound show that is held there every evening.

Earth > Chichen Itza	Visit The Mayan Ruins Of Chichen Itza, Mexico At a time when Europe was still consumed by the Dark Ages, the Mayan civilisation of Central America were building structures every bit as spectacular as those of ancient Greece and Egypt. And one of the most spectacular examples of their craftsmanship can be found deep within the jungles of Mexico - the extraordinary pyramids of Chichen Itza.	Have you ever been to Chichen Itza? If so we would love to hear all about your experiences (perhaps with a photo or two). You can contact us via our contact page. Gift Ideas Yucatan by Ray Bartlett Price: £13.99 from Lonely Planet The cradle of the Maya civilization, a land of mystery and magic, Yucatán stands proud as one of Mexico's most unique regions. Charge into rain forest adventures, explore the legacy of the enigmatic Maya, check out the secret corners of colonial cities, or simply do that whole Mexico, sit on the beach with a Corona thing. No stone is left unturned - from Cancún to Cozumel and everywhere in-between - in this comprehensive and informed guide.. Buy the Lonely Planet guide to Yucatan securely online by clicking here
	Chichen Itza boasts many fine examples of Mayan temples, palaces, stages, markets, baths, and ballcourts spread over an area of about four square miles. The centre piece of the settlement that was Chichen Itza is the Pyramid of Kukulkán. At 80 feet it is the tallest structure at the site and has undergone restoration on two of its four sides. Two other stepped pyramids can also be found at Chichen Itza, but neither have been restored. Ball courts are another common feature of Mayan towns and cities and Chichen Itza has seven, including the largest of its kind in the Maya world. Carvings in this court indicate that the captain of the losing team was beheaded by the opposing victorious captain. It is said that the game was played as a way of settling disputes and that to be sacrificed in this way was a great honour! The Maya Chronicles record that in 1221 a revolt and civil war broke out, and archeological evidence confirms that the wooden roofs of the great market and the Temple of the Warriors were burnt at about this date. Chichen Itza went into decline soon afterwards and although never completely abandoned, the population declined. The ruins of Chichen Itza can be found on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula, home to the tourist resorts of Cancun, Cozumel and the Mayan Riviera. So if you are holidaying in that part of Mexico, the pyramids of Chichen Itza are a must see on any itinerary. The ruins are a few hours drive along the new motorway from Cancún and are most visited site in the Yukatán. A large visitors’ complex with cafeterias, toilet facilities, shops and a museum has been build at the entrance to Chichen Itza so tourists are well catered for. Not surprisingly, it can get very crowded. The tour buses arrive around 10-11am, so if at all possible try to get there before the masses and as soon after the 8am opening as possible. This will give you time to climb the Pyramid of Kukulkán before it gets too hot and will allow you to view the whole site before the crowds arrive. Alternatively, leave your visit until later in the day when the buses have headed back to the coast. Ideally, you will need two days for a good understanding of the site which covers four square miles. If you can, stay overnight near the site and enjoy the wonderful light and sound show that is held there every evening.

1001 Things To Do Before You Die Visit Chichen Itza

1001 Things To Do Before You Die
Visit Chichen Itza