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.
