Chichén Itzá: The Crown Jewel of Maya Civilization 🌞🏛️
A Crossroads of History Founded by the Maya around 600 AD, later conquered by the Toltecs (10th century), blending Maya-Toltec culture. UNESCO World Heritage Site & New7Wonders of the World. 🏰 Must-See Structures 1. Pyramid of Kukulcán (El Castillo) Height: 30m, with 4 sides of 91 steps + platform = 365 (solar year). Equinox Magic: Shadow forms a descending serpent—Kukulcán’s symbolic return. 2. Great Ball Court Largest in Mesoamerica (168m long!). Wall carvings depict ritual ball games—winners? Possibly sacrificed (honor, not punishment!). 3. Temple of the Warriors Forest of carved columns + iconic Chac Mool statue (messenger to rain gods). 4. Sacred Cenote 60m-wide sinkhole where jade, gold, and human offerings were made to the gods. 5. El Caracol (The Snail) Ancient observatory with spiral stairs—Maya astronomers tracked Venus & solstices here. 📌 Pro Tips for Visitors Go early (opens 8 AM) to avoid crowds/heat. Hire a guide—hidden details bring the ruins to life! Try: Nearby Ik Kil cenote swim to cool off. #MayaMysteries #Wanderlust #HistoryAlive #MexicoMustSee