The archaeological site of Chichen Itza is the most important city of the Mayan culture in the Yucatan peninsula. What not many people know is that every corner of the archaeological site was not built at random. In this blog, we will focus on the equinox. The equinox in Chichén Itzá happens twice a year. The first occurs on March 21st and the second on September 21st.
The main pyramid, Kukulcán Castle, is 30 meters high, has nine platforms and a staircase at the highest level. Every corner of this pyramid is designed in reference to astrological and mathematical parameters. In this building, in Chichén Itzá, is where the equinox is seen, where it is notable and celebrated. The pyramid represents a calendar. The most important parts of it are the platforms, stairs and other details; each platform means a month of the calendar and the stairs represent the days.
The equinox in Chichén Itzá is a unique and punctual event that shows how advanced the Mayan culture was. The connection between buildings, astrology and their religion are totally direct; the equinox in Chichén Itzá shows this connection. On the main building, Kukulcán Castle, shines the western face of the pyramid. Its architecture aligned with the stars creates the shadow projected by the platforms that are echoed to the main staircase. At the bottom of the staircase, you can see two giant serpent heads worshipping the feathered serpent.
As the sun sets, the shadows cast create the body of the serpent, the peak of the equinox at Chichén Itzá. It is then when this body formed shadow from atop unites with the head of the serpent. The result of optical effect of sunlight and shadows against the face of the pyramid, and timing is spectacular – simply astonishing. The sun of the late afternoon creates the illusion of a snake slithering slowly down the northern staircase.
During this amazing event, at Chichén Itzá, Mayan rituals and practices from the indigenous residents take place. If your vacation concurs with the equinox (March 21st or September 21st), we strongly recommend that you spend the day at Chichén Itzá. It is a “must see” unforgettable experience.