Why Is Chichen Itza Famous?

The Mysteries Behind Chichen Itza

Located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, Chichen Itza is an ancient Mayan city that continues to fascinate and mystify people today. This famous site is made up of various structures and ruins, including the iconic pyramid known as El Castillo or the Temple of Kukulcan. But why is Chichen Itza so famous? What is the story behind this ancient city? Let’s dive in and uncover the mysteries that make it a must-see destination for travelers and history enthusiasts alike.

The History of Chichen Itza

The city of Chichen Itza was founded around 600 A.D. and was at its peak during the late Postclassic period, which spanned from the 10th to the 13th century. It is believed to have been an important religious, political, and cultural center for the Mayan civilization.

One of the most interesting things about Chichen Itza is that it shows a blend of both Mayan and Toltec architecture and art styles. This suggests that the site may have been conquered or heavily influenced by the Toltecs, a warrior society from central Mexico. The Toltec influence is evident in the design of El Castillo, which has four sides with 91 steps each, totaling 364. When added to the platform at the top, this equals 365, the number of days in a solar year.

The Legends of Chichen Itza

One of the most popular legends surrounding Chichen Itza is the one about Quetzalcoatl, the Feathered Serpent. According to this myth, the Toltec god Quetzalcoatl was banished from Tula, the Toltec capital, and went on a journey to win back his throne. During his travels, he stopped at Chichen Itza and taught the city’s inhabitants various skills and knowledge, including mathematics, calendars, and astronomy. He became their protector and was worshipped as the god Kukulcan.

The legend goes on to say that Quetzalcoatl will return when the calendar reaches the end of a cycle, which is often linked to the winter solstice. Some people believe that the phenomenon known as the “serpent of light” on the side of El Castillo during the equinoxes is a representation of the return of Quetzalcoatl.

The Significance of El Castillo

As mentioned earlier, El Castillo is an iconic structure at Chichen Itza. Apart from its unique design, it is also significant because it served as a giant Mayan calendar and astronomical observatory. The pyramid has four stairways, each with 91 steps and a platform at the top. The total number of steps on all four sides, including the platform, adds up to 365, representing the number of days in a solar year. The pyramid is also aligned in such a way that during the equinoxes, the shadows on each stairway create a serpent-like effect on the side of the pyramid.

El Castillo is not the only structure at Chichen Itza with astronomical significance. The Caracol, also known as the Observatory, was used by the Mayans to study the movements of Venus and other celestial bodies. It is believed that the Mayans used their astronomical knowledge to determine the best times for planting crops, as well as for religious and political events.

The Legacy of Chichen Itza

Today, Chichen Itza is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. It attracts thousands of visitors each year who are mesmerized by the intricate and advanced architecture of the ancient site. But its legacy goes beyond just being a tourist attraction. The knowledge and skills passed down by the Mayans, as well as the rich history and legends, continue to inspire and intrigue people to this day.

If you’re planning a trip to Chichen Itza, be sure to visit our site for more information and tips on how to make the most of your visit. Also, check out the many other fascinating articles and answers available on our site related to this topic. Happy exploring!

Why is Chichen Itza famous?

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *