About
One landmark near Merida that should be at the top of your things-to-do list is visiting Chichén Itzá.
Listed as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World by UNESCO, this magnificent ancient ruin represents the ingenuity and astronomical knowledge of the Maya civilization. It is a sacred city and Mayan pilgrimage center founded by the "sorcerers of the water" known as the Itza.
There are many archaeological ruins to explore at Chichén Itzá, but the main draw is the iconic structure of El Castillo or the Temple of Kukulcán. This four-sided pyramid served as a temple and a calendar. There are 365 steps to the top of the pyramid, which are aligned with the sun during the equinoxes. Such alignment casts a serpent-like shadow down its steps, an homage to the feathered serpent deity, Kukulcán.
The Great Ball Court at Chichén Itzá is an example of the Maya's passion for a ball game with athletic and ceremonial significance. The Temple of the Warriors is also nearby, a large complex with rows of carved columns depicting warriors.
When visiting Chichén Itzá, be sure to walk the 300 meter path connecting the Kukulcan pyramid to the Sacred Cenote within the grounds.
Located about 1½ hours from Merida, a trip toChichén Itzá is an enlightening exploration of one of the world's most fascinating archaeological treasures.
Chichen Itza: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Let's begin with the star attraction, El Castillo, or the Temple of Kukulcán. As mentioned, it was designed with 365 steps to correspond to the days of the year and reflects the Maya's meticulous attention to the calendar and astronomical events.
A cool feature at El Castillo is that during the spring and autumn equinoxes the setting sun casts a serpent-like shadow down the staircase. As you'd expect, this event attracts thousands of spectators worldwide.
Sports fans will be impressed with The Great Ball Court, the largest ball court in ancient Mesoamerica. It is 554 feet long and 231 feet wide, demonstrating the importance of the ball game in Maya society. Unlike our sporting event, this game was a ritual steeped in religious and political significance.
A fun fact about The Great Ball Court is its acoustics. You can hear a whisper from one end of the wall to another! This natural phenomenon demonstrates the Maya's advanced understanding of sound engineering.
The Cenote Sagrado, or the Sacred Cenote, is a natural sinkhole filled with freshwater. Not only did it provide hydration, it was also a place of pilgrimage and sacrifice, where Mayans offered gold, jade, pottery, and even human beings to their gods. While visitors can't swim or dive in this cenote, Explorer Divers Merida offers tours of other area cenotes that make for a fascinating adventure.
Top off a trip to Chichén Itzá by grabbing a bite at Taco Maya by Oxtun near the entrance to the site. If exploring beyond the gates of Chichén Itzá is an option, you’ll also be pleasantly surprised with the authentic Yucatecan cuisine at La Tia Poloc.
Getting There
Here are step-by-step driving directions to Chichén Itzá from Merida:
- Start by heading east on Calle 63 toward Calle 60.
- Turn right onto Calle 60 and continue for about 1 mile.
- Merge onto Carretera Mérida-Puerto Juárez/Mexico 180D via the ramp to Cancun.
- Continue on Mexico 180D for approximately 75 miles.
- Take the exit toward Chichén-Itzá/Yokdzonot.
- Continue straight and follow the signs to Chichén-Itzá.
Local Tips
- Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the midday heat.
- Bring plenty of water; staying hydrated in the Yucatán heat is essential.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enrich your understanding of the site's history.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking and uneven terrain.
- Don't forget to apply sunscreen and bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
