Chichen Itza

ancient civilization · maya · archaeology · Mexico

A Massive City. Chichen Itza was one of the largest and most important cities built by the Maya people during the Terminal Classic period, roughly 1,200 years ago. It was located in what is now Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula.

The Famous Pyramid. The site's most iconic structure is El Castillo (The Castle), a massive step pyramid with four sides that served as a temple to the Maya god Kukulkan. Each side has 91 steps, and including the top platform, they add up to 365, matching the days in a year!

Advanced Maya Knowledge. The Maya people who built Chichen Itza were incredibly skilled in mathematics, astronomy, and architecture. They created a sophisticated calendar system and built structures aligned with the movements of the sun and stars.

A Trading Hub. Chichen Itza wasn't just a religious center, it was a bustling city where people traded goods, held markets, and gathered for important ceremonies. Different architectural styles show that it brought together Maya and other Mesoamerican influences.

Still Being Discovered. Archaeologists continue to study Chichen Itza today, using modern technology to uncover new secrets about how the Maya lived and built this incredible city over a thousand years ago.