What happens in Chichen Itza in the equinox?

Equinox at Chichen Itza On every equinox, the sun of the late afternoon creates the illusion of a snake creeping slowly down the northern staircase. Symbolically, the feathered serpent joins the heavens, earth and the underworld, day and night.

Which temple shows a snake undulating down the staircase during the equinox?

the Kukulkan pyramid
At sunset of equinox day, on the steps of the Kukulkan pyramid, you can see a descending serpent consisting of seven reversed isosceles triangles made up of sunlight and shadow.

What was the pyramid at Chichen Itza used for?

Built by the pre-Columbian Maya civilization sometime between the 8th and 12th centuries AD, the pyramid served as a temple to the deity Kukulcán, the Yucatec Maya Feathered Serpent deity closely related to Quetzalcoatl, a deity known to the Aztecs and other central Mexican cultures of the Postclassic period.

What was Chichen Itza used for?

This large structure is believed to have been used for religious rites that were meant to ensure good agricultural results. Chichen Itza’s main purpose was to serve as a religious center for people in the region.

Can you still climb Chichen Itza?

Unfortunately for visitors, no, Chichen Itza Pyramid is not allowed to climb. Luckily for all the locals and culture lovers, the main Mayan Building of Chichen Itza can’t be climbed. In this way, we contribute to preserving this sacred site. Years ago, the Chichen Itza Pyramid used to be claimed by tourists.

Why can’t you climb the Mayan pyramid?

The pyramid of Kukulkán — also known as “El Castillo” — is the most famous Maya monument in Yucatán, and arguably in the entire Maya world. In 2008, Mexico’s Institute for History and Anthropology (INAH) prohibited all tourists from climbing the structure citing concerns regarding its preservation.

Why is Chichen Itza so important?

Chichen Itza as a Capital Via its port at Isla Cerritos on the northern coast, Chichen Itza became an important commercial center, trading in goods—including gold and other treasures—with other cities throughout the Americas. At its height, it is believed that as many as 50,000 people lived in the city.