Chichen Itza is one of the official wonders of the new world and is subsequently one of the most visited locations in the whole of Mexico. Here are 5 facts about the site we bet you never knew.
The Meaning of the Name
Chichen Itza essentially means “at the mouth of the well of the Itza”.
An Important Mayan City
Chichen Itza does not actually refer to the big pyramid in the center. This is “The Castillo”. Chichen Itza is, in fact, a Mayan City covering five square kilometers. It once was home to the most diverse Mayan population in history.
A Mysterious Shadow
Twice a year, sunrays create a shadow across the Kukulkan Pyramid which has the appearance of a serpent slithering down the staircase. These two dates are the Spring and Autumn Equinox (March 20 and September 22 retrospectively).
Unique Acoustics
Many of the sites have unique acoustics which produces unusual sounds. In the Ball Court, for example, nine echoes are produced around the middle court if you clap once.
Everything is Stone
every single building in Chichen Itza is made from stone. It is believed that the Mayans did not use the wheel when building any of their temples, palaces or pyramids.
