Chichen Itza Location, Facts and History

Did you know that Chichen Itza is one of Mexico’s Most visited destinations? And was recently chosen as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World? Fancy a vacation in this stunning locale with an abundance of historical sites to explore? See more Chichen Itza location, facts and history here…

The Rich History of Chichen Itza

When was Chichen Itza built? The answer to that question is 600 AD. It was a large pre-Columbian city erected by the people of Maya. And was a major focal point in the Yucatan State until 1221.

More Information

Interesting Chichen Itza facts include:

• The name – meaning “at the mouth of the well of the Itza”
• Many of the Mayan people were skilled craftsmen – sculptors, potters, and jewellers
• All the buildings are made of stone without the use of the wheel
• The area was a popular place of pilgrimage and continued to be a religious centre
• Foreigners invaded the city in the 10th century
• There is archaeological evidence that the power of Yucatan switched to Mayapan in 1221
• It was designated a World Heritage site in 1988
• Two underground passages leading from a smaller pyramid were discovered in 2017

Site Details

The Chichen Itza address is Yucatan, Mexico. And it‘s located in the south-central port of the state. The city occupies an area of approximately 10 square kilometres. Bus services connect the area to the nearby small town of Piste, the international airports at Merida. And you can easily bus to Chichen Itza from Cancun. Even though it’s 100 miles away.
Chichen Itza location is thought to have been due to two large natural sinkholes nearby that would have provided water all year round. One of these sink holes may have been used for human sacrifice to end any periods of drought. In 1904 when the site was dredged skeletons and sacrificial objects confirmed this legend.

Famous Buildings

Construction of major buildings such as the High Priest’s Grave and the Temple of Warriors was completed after the invasion. The Temple of Jaguars is a spectacular mural depicting warriors laying siege to a village.

El Castillo, also known as the castle, is another name for the impressive Kukulcan pyramid. It rises 24 metres above the main Plaza. There are 365 steps, one for each day of the year, with 91 stairs on all four sides.

The iconic stones look like serpents slithering down the sides when the sun casts its shadow, during the spring and autumn equinoxes. Kukulcan was a Mayan God depicted as a snake hence the design.

The Great Ballcourt is one of the largest in all of ancient Mesoamerica. It has six courts which measure 166 metres long. And 68 metres wide. The sculptures running along the court walls depict the victors holding the heads of the losers.

Take time to visit The Red House, House of Deer, Temple of The Wall Panels. And the Nunnery Complex which use to be the Royal Palace. In old Chichen there’s even more archaeological sites, but they are part of the Maya Jungle Reserve and Nature Trails. Only open to visitors for bird-watching and horseback expeditions.

Get A Guided Tour

Koox Diving in Tulum provides exclusive Chichen Itza guided tours. You’ll be able to explore the amazing relics, swim in a secret cenote, as well as visiting the remarkable Chichen Itza pyramid. Your expert local guide will ensure you see all of the impressive archaeological sites. And have a day tour to remember.
Included in your package will be transportation, meals, and even a camera to record every step of your adventure. All you need to do is enjoy.