🇲🇽 Chichén Itzá · Mayan Pyramid｜A Candid Review

It’s essentially a site of large stone structures. I highly recommend reading up on its history and cultural significance before visiting—otherwise, it might just feel like… rocks. Hiring a guide costs extra, and the experience varies. ⚠️ Key Tips: Time Management: If driving yourself, note the time difference and closing time (16:30!). Don’t waste a long drive only to find it closed. Highway Hassles: During the drive, you’ll encounter people waving you down—selling tickets, souvenirs, or guide services. Some even wear fake “official” badges. Annoying and misleading! Sun Protection: It’s extremely hot and exposed. Bring sunscreen, hats, and water. Over-Commercialized: More vendors than ruins—endless stalls and loud sales pitches. You can buy tickets on-site, but the value is questionable (IMO). 🤔 My Personal Take: I’ve never been deeply fascinated by the Mayan pyramids—I visited mainly for my mom’s interest. But as someone intrigued by myths and legends, I’ve long been aware of the darker aspects of Mayan culture. While many associate it with “mystical energy” and pyramids, few talk about its brutal sacrificial rituals. The Maya believed blood was the source of divine power. Human sacrifice was used to communicate with gods and seek protection. Common methods included beheading or cutting out a living person’s heart, then spreading the blood on idols. The body would be kicked down the pyramid steps. Priests would skin the victim and wear the skin in ritual dances. Parts of the body were eaten, and bones were kept as relics. Twins were considered especially powerful—often sacrificed to pray for rain or crop fertility. I have twin friends… so in that culture, they’d probably have been “chosen.” 😶 If you’re curious, I recommend the movie 《Apocalypto》 (2006). It depicts these rituals vividly. After watching, you might see the pyramid differently—knowing it once echoed with screams and rolled with heads. Not my vibe, but I hope you enjoy your visit if you go! 🌞 #Mexico #ChichenItza #Pyramid #TravelThoughts #DarkHistory #Cancún #MayanCulture