If we think about the Yucatán Peninsula, few places can compare in terms of tourism: the charm of its beaches is accompanied by the pleasure and variety of its cuisine, which also adds options for leisure and recreation. But, perhaps, its distinguishing feature is the mysterious world of the Maya, of which Chichén Itzá is an emblem.
Standing there, in perfect order, the different constructions awaken the absolute incredulity of those who set foot there for the first time, as these large structures were placed without the aid of any modern technology. And although our gaze wanders restlessly, trying to encompass everything, at first it is the Pyramid of Kukulcán that captures the collective attention. To truly appreciate it, you must look beyond, transcend the present, and travel to the past, abandon the concrete, and appeal to symbolism.
The architectural richness of the place can also be considered historical wealth, as nothing was placed there by chance: each stone, its orientation, the carved designs hold much deeper meanings than one can imagine, making this Maya corner much more than just an interesting tourism proposal.
The Pyramid, also known as The Castle, is a tribute to the God Kukulcán, or feathered serpent, and reaches a total height of 30 meters, with 4 facades, each having a central staircase. The surprising aspect of the construction is the effect it recreates on March 21 and September 21, when the deity descends to pour out its blessings, thanks to the play of sunlight penetrating the building. The wisdom of the Maya is confirmed at this moment, as the pyramid is much more than that: it is a calendar of 365 days, counting the 91 steps of the 4 facades and the upper platform. This corresponds to their haab calendar and allowed the Maya to identify what time of year they were in and determine when the time for afternoon harvest and planting was, food that was part of their daily diet. Thus, what we now see through the lens of the extraordinary once represented a way to navigate and develop in society.
Although the Pyramid of Kukulcán is the masterpiece of Chichén Itzá, it is undeniable that the ensemble, in its entirety, represents a true work of art: the Observatory, the Well, the Temple of the Thousand Columns, the Ball Game. In all of them, there is symbolism and tradition, with astronomy embodied in the magnificent constructions, and mathematics projected on every wall.
This spectacular combination of the enveloping and whimsical nature and the ancient constructions where the memory is hidden makes this little Maya corner a more than valid reason to dedicate a few hours of travel. Here, no one will leave without having been touched by awe!
Portuguese Versión: Tudo o que precisas de saber sobre a Pirâmide de Kukulcán, em Chichén Itzá
