We visited Chichen Itza as a part of my recent yoga retreat in Tulum. It is a remarkable place to see that was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. The amount of planning that went into the buildings is astounding and everyone should check it out given the opportunity. Here are a few pics from my visit...
El Castillo:
This was created at the exact angles so that it would look like snakes are running down the sides on the spring and fall equinox each year.
The great ballcourt:
This is where the mayans would play a ballgame twice per year on the spring and fall equinox (important dates for them due to agriculture). The captain of the winning team would be sacrificed and the captain of the losing team would be sent into slavery.
The king's seat at the end of the great ballcourt:
After going to Chichen Itza, we went swimming in the Ik Kil Cenote which is near to Chichen Itza. Cenotes are essentially holes in the ground that are partially filled with water because of underwater caves. It is speculated that they were created by meteors hitting the earth. In this case, the Ik Kil Cenote is around 200ft deep with water starting around 60ft from the top. A beautiful place to see and take a quick dip...
From above:
Heading down:
Halfway: