Magnificent Mayan Ruins
Mayan Civilization is considered as one of the most highly advanced cultures among primitive times. Mayans are highly admired for their cognition of astronomy, architecture and mathematics. Today, ruins of Mayan people are visited by hoards of tourists every year. All the ruins, 40 Mayan Cities are full of splendid pyramids and stone temples. Primarily, these places were used as the ceremonial centers. The Mayans visited the priests and prophets to perform their rituals over these beautiful and stalwart structures.
There are ample sites to see thoughout Central America, but some are a bit more awe-inspiring than others. These destinations are scattered over a large area, and it can be difficult to choose which ones to explore. Here are a few of the most magnificent Mayan ruins that you’ll want to hit up:
Yucatan
Chichen Itza
Arguably the most famous among all the ruins, this site is highly visited by tourists. Over the years, a total of 18 structures have been restored here. The tallest pyramid of Kukulcan can give a whole view of Chichen Itza from the peak. Around the 21st of March and also the 21st of September, the setting sun causes a shadow that appears as a snake on the pyramid steps. These will obviously also be the most busy times of year to visit Chichen Itza.
Ek Balam
This site has a lot of buildings and temples, as well as two large grounds and a central grand pyramid. Here, you can make out the actual archeological process of the Mayan method of building. The combination of ruined stone structures and green foliage and trees gives off a mystical aura.
Dzibilchaltun
This place has an amazing museum loaded with Mayan artifacts. Other attractions include intricate temples, a monumental stela and a deep freshwater well for a refreshing swim.
Mayapan
This is the believed to be the last Mayan Capital before its civilizations downfall. The ancient grandeur is still sustained, showing a high amount of influence of Kukulcan of Chichen Itza.
Uxmal
The Uxmal ruins are fantastic. Uxmal means ‘thrice built’ in Mayan. It has the highest structure of this site is called the Pyramid of the Magician. Mayans used to build on top of existing temples, and this one has five. This is also one of the largest cities in the Yucatan.
Quintana Roo
Chacchoben
This site has a very mystical vibe, and can take an entire day to truly explore. Chacchoben means ‘Place of Red Corn’. The restored temple pyramids are layered with mahoganies, palms, figs and banyans.
Coba
This place has five lakes amongst the forest canopies. The highest pyramid here is Nohoch Mul, which is literally 12 stories high. The top level will give you a view of the vast jungle with numerous buildings jutting above the trees.
Kohunlich, Dzibanche and Oxtankah
All three of these are roughly connected, and the area is a testament to the quality and quantity of Mayan architecture. The jungle here is vividly green and teeming with wildlife and exotic birds.
Tulum
This seaside archeological site contains several imposing and powerful structures. Referred to as the “Walled City”, this place held a strong sense of significance during its period. One can still find several intact frescoes, an art form of beautifully painted plaster.
Campeche
Calakmul
Constructed with northern and southern cultural influences, this was the site of a major superpower in the region. At one point in its history, it was attacked and plundered by one of its resource competitors in this area, Tikal.
Becan
This site consists of about 3 hectares. This currently deserted city was once the political, economical and religious capital for the Mayan people.
Chiapas
Bonampak
Deep in the jungle of Chiapas this place is widely known for its murals. Here you will see and learn of many examples of rituals of the royal court, human sacrifice, costumes, musical instruments, and weapons of the Maya.
This article was written by a contributing member of the theglobalguru.net community. Please feel free to submit your own content to the knowledge base! Photos taken by Phillip Jeffers.
