In 2001, Chichen Itza was named one of the “New 7 Wonders of the World.” Just 2 ½ hours from Cancun, Mexico is an amazing archeological site called Chichen Itza. Each and every year on the Spring equinox, a shadow in the shape of a serpent is formed by the angle of the setting sun. You will not want to miss this amazing sight. On March 20th, will you be in Cancun, Mexico? If you are, then you will want to make sure that you see this unique occurrence. Continue to read below to learn about Cancun and Chichen Itza’s majestic ruins.
Chichen Itza: Magical Mayan City
The Yucatan Peninsula is home to luscious jungle that surrounds Chichen Itza, which is an UNESCO World Heritage site. During the Classic Period, historians named Chichen Itza as being an important Mayan capital city. Many of the original structures are still standing. Chichen Itza is the largest archeological city in the area, too. Any visitors that will be in Cancun will not want to miss these magical Mayan ruins in Mexico. In fact, Chichen Itza happens to be the most popular and sought out place for tourists to visit on the Yucatan Peninsula. Anytime you see how the Mayans lived as you step back into time exploring the ruins, something magical happens.
Chichen Itza: Landmarks and Highlights
A massive pyramid located in the middle of the Chichen Itza is the most well-known structure called the El Castillo or the Temple of Kukulcan. Throughout nearly every location in the ruins, this massive pyramid can be seen. The old city was 6.5 square km in size and existed from around 600 AD up through the 13th century. Thankfully, most of the original stone carvings are still visible, and thousands of visitors each year enjoy them. Some of the Chichen Itza highlights would include the ball field, the Wall of the Skulls, and the Temple of the Warriors. If you and your family will be spending the day at Chichen Itza, you will want to make sure you have plenty of sunscreen and a hat, because it gets very hot at the ruins. You and your family should try to stay through the evening so you can enjoy the lights and sound show that beautifully highlight the stone buildings and structures.
Chichen Itza: Explore or Go on a Tour
There are numerous tours to Chichen Itza from Cancun. The tour operators depart from Cancun in the morning, then they will bring you back in the evening. You and your family will enjoy a full day at the ruins where adventure and fun await you. Also, when you go on a tour, you will have a tour guide that will provide you information about all of the ruins. The transportation to the ruin with a tour will have air conditioning, or you can use public transportation and arrange your own travel arrangements. When you arrive at Chichen Itza, you can explore the ruins at your own pace. You are free to explore. The largest Mayan empire on the Yucatan Peninsula will allow you to step back into time where you will appreciate and feel the rich heritage that surrounds you.
On March 20th, the Spring Equinox shadow serpent will appear at the ruins. Anytime you are visiting Cancun, you will want to make sure you visit Chichen Itza. These ancient and mysterious ruins are waiting for you to explore them. Will you be vacationing in Cancun soon? If you are, then make sure you go to Chichen Itza for an unforgettable experience the whole family will enjoy.
