Chichen Itza was a large city built by the Maya people of the Terminal Classic period. The archeological site is located in Yucatán State of Mexico.

The Chichen Itza area became a big deal to the Mayans starting around 600 AD through 1200 AD. The site exhibits a multitude of architectural styles, reminiscent of styles seen in central Mexico.

Chitin Itza Facts

• Chichen Itza gets its name from a cenote nearby.

• The main pyramid nests multiple smaller pyramids inside it.

• Monuments of Chichen Itza were astronomically aligned.

• The Serpent God, Kukulkan descends on the pyramid twice every year.

Preserving the Ruins

The ruins of Chichen Itza was purchased by the state of Yucatánin 2010. It is maintained by Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History. They have done a great job of making it more accessible and ensuring that it will be preserved for the next generation to enjoy.

The first time I visited the pyramids it was under private ownership and you could do whatever you wanted. You want to take a chunk of the pyramid home, no problem. In fact they used to let you climb all over the pyramids. In 2006 a woman was walking down from the top and lost her balance. She tumbled end over end down the rocky steps and broke her neck. Now no one can climb them. Way to go A-hole! They keep all the historic stuff ropped off now and you can’t even touch them. Probably for the best so people don’t do more dumb shit like carve their initials or take more souvenirs. People ruin everything.

The Pyramids

There are several pyramids in Chitza Itza but the main structure is El Castillo. It is 98' tall and inside there are many other pyramids.These are just awesome and so were the Mayans.

Yeah I know, same old pictures you’ve seen of this place a million times. Nothing exciting or artistic about these but at least they are not stock and I took them myself. Caiti looks great and seemed to be having a great time enjoying the pyramids, I wander how many people were slaughtered in that exact same spot she was standing?

Group of 1000 Columns

These columns were the center of commerce and trade. I always relate things back to me when I visit places like this like what goods or services would I have been selling here? Alcohol and tobacco products maybe, Pepsi and Frito Lay products?

Temple of the Warriors

This is where the warriors trained for fighting and sport, the Golds Gym of the time. No way the Mayans wiped down the equipment after each use.

Map of Mexico

If you fly into Cancun and rent a car the drive here is roughly 2.5 hours or your hotel can book you a tour.

Map of Chitza Itza