Mexico. Travel. Photography.
A Postcard From Chichen Itza
Exploring one of the new seven wonders of the world
Chichen Itza is one of the new 7 wonders of the world, along with other incredible architectural feats of ancient civilisations such as the pyramids of Giza and Machu Picchu.
It truly is the archaeological jewel in the crown of Mayan ruins in Mexico. It is arguably one of the most famous Mayan ruins in Mexico and Central America.
The settlers chose the location in order to be close to cenotes (limestone sinkholes that expose groundwater) as a freshwater source, which gives its name roughly translating to “at the mouth of the well of the itza.” Cenotes were also important cultural sites as it was believed they were the gateways to the underworld. They were places to give offerings and sacrifices to the Gods.
Construction is believed to have begun between 750 to 900 AD, and throughout its 1,000-year history, both the Mayans and the Toltecs left their mark on the city with their different artistic styles and construction methods.
El Castillo (The Castle) is in the centre and is the star of the Mayan archaeological site of Chitzen Itza.
It is a mighty pyramid looming 98 ft above the green grass, piercing the bright blue sky. Its stark marbled grey angles jut out and juxtapose soft white clouds. The stairs look as if they lead directly up into the heavens.
We walked its circumference, and it was equally beautiful from every angle, a perfectly put-together jigsaw, each piece its own work of art.
We enjoyed trekking around the ancient city, taking in stunning examples of columns, pyramids, and temples. Staring at the hieroglyphics and statues.
We shuddered at the wall of skulls, an artistic testimony to the practice of human sacrifice, and we stood in awe of the temple of the warriors.
This time I took my lonely planet with me and played the role of tour guide, reading out passages and snippets about the history and significance of each place of note.
It’s days like this that you wonder, is this really my life? Am I really just casually wandering around a wonder of the world like it’s no big deal? I need someone to pinch me sometimes!
It’s truly a magical place, and if you’re ever in the Yucatan, you simply can’t miss it!
Editor’s Note: Snapshots is a publication for an author’s photos. In this piece, all the photos belong to the partner of the author because her camera broke during their trip. All photos were used with the permission of the photographer.
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