🏛️ Chichen Itza (Temple of Kukulkan)
Mexico
About This Sacred Site
Chichen Itza in Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula was a major Maya city and one of the most important ceremonial centers in Mesoamerica. The iconic Temple of Kukulkan (El Castillo) is a masterpiece of astronomical architecture: during the spring and fall equinoxes, the play of sunlight and shadow creates the appearance of a serpent descending the pyramid's staircase. The site also includes the Great Ball Court, the Temple of Warriors, and the Sacred Cenote used for offerings.
Key Facts
- •During equinoxes, shadows create a 'descending serpent' effect on the pyramid
- •The pyramid has 365 steps, one for each day of the year
- •The Great Ball Court is the largest in Mesoamerica at 166 x 68 meters
- •Named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007
- •The Sacred Cenote (sinkhole) was used for offerings to the rain god Chaac
Location
Coordinates: 20.6843, -88.5678
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