An Exciting Getaway Idea, Chichen Itza

Thursday, September 17, 2009 ·

By Ricardo d Argence

If you are searching for an exciting getaway that is rich in history and packed with fun, your search is over. The destination that will meet your needs is Chichen Itza. This amazing historic location is considered to be one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Your memories of this site will live remain with you throughout your lifetime since it is absolutely unforgettable.

You could also include a fun trip to Cancun while visiting you are visiting Chichen Itza since it a short trip that can be taken by bus or car. If you are already planning to visit Cancun a day trip to Chichen Itza would be a perfect way to take a break from the exciting atmosphere of Cancun and spend some time in more peaceful atmosphere that holds its own unique type of excitement. A day trip to Chichen Itza will make it possible for your to experience the full culture of Mexico and its many sides.

Chichen Itza is an archeological site that blends the styles of the Toltec and the Puuc. The many buildings feature sculptures that represent Mayan gods as well as other architecture that is delicately laid out and styled.

The earliest findings here have been from 1 AD to 250 AD. It is located right near a large well that helped to make it a Mayan center of activity. Chichen Itza rose to prominence as a social center. Its location right off the coast made it the perfect spot for those coming in off the sea.

Historians believe that the first inhabitants of Chichen Itza were Itza warriors. The city was named for the cities well, the name meaning "Mouth of the Well of the Itza". This thriving settlement made it possible for the people of Itza to rule the entire Yucatan peninsula.

The best time to visit Chichen Itza is during the spring equinox. The spring equinox is an archeoastronmical phenomenon. It occurs on March 21st when the sun shines on the Northern and Southern hemispheres equally. At this time, it is possible to see a serpent projection from the sun. This happens when the sun sets.

Witnessing this event has become a tradition at Chichen Itza. People flock to the area to witness the phenomenon. As the serpent projection appears above the temple it appears to move and creates a grand illusion. The illusion lasts for only two minutes, but they are minutes that are well spent. This incredible phenomenon is unexplainable and must be seen to be appreciated since words used to describe it can not do it justice.

People from all corners of the world have voted on this famous Mayan temple city to proclaim it to be one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. This city is still an important historic site and remains important to the Mayans.

The various areas of the city such as the Kukulkan pyramid, the Chac Mool Temple and the Hall of the Thousand Pillars are real gems. The remaining structures are incredible and add to the overall charm of the area and make it possible for visitors to gain a real respect for this long ago fallen city.

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