Chichen Itza

Chichen Itza

The second most visited archaeological site in Mexico after Teotihuacan, and the most visited in the state of Yucatan, Chichen Itza is located 75 miles (120 kms) east of Merida. One of the most magnificent examples of Mayan architecture, Chichen Itza was founded by the maya-chontal people coming from the west. The first buildings date back to 415 to 435 A.D. and are representative of the Chenes and Puuc architectural styles. Chichen Itza means “city on the border of the well of the Itzaes” and the site reached its maximum splendor during the Classic Period between the 7th and 10th centuries A.D. Traces of the Toltecs who took over between 967 and 987 are still evident in the frequent feathered serpent (Quetzalcoatl) images, huge reptile heads and Chac-Mool statues. Between 1185 and 1204 Chichen Itza was conquered by Mayapan and after that, gradually abandoned. Accommodations virtually right next to the archaeological site or in the nearby village of Piste are available. Do not miss a visit to the beautiful cenote of Ik-kil were a refreshing plunge may be a most welcome experience.