The Temple of Kukulkan, also known as the Chichen Itza Pyramid or "El Castillo" (“The Castle”), is the most outstanding construction within the Chichen Itza archaeological complex. And not just because of its sheer physical size. The structure evokes a sense of something deeper, an enthralling narrative woven through ages of spirituality, sacred geometry, and a profound bond with the cosmic cadences. This allure captivates observers, drawing them into its aura. Situated on the Yucatan Peninsula in southeastern Mexico, adjacent to the municipality of Tinum, this pyramid and the surrounding Mayan city claim their place.
If you're considering staying at the nearby Iberostar Selection Paraiso Maya Suites in Riviera Maya, you'll be surprised to find yourself suddenly inside it. No, the hotel isn't built on sacred ground, nor has the temple been moved: it's a replica of the monument adorning the lobby bar so that, from the moment you set foot in it, you can feel the energy of Mayan tradition. This All-Inclusive resort is located in the heart of the Caribbean and is ideal for both couples and families (it features nine swimming areas, a water park with slides, a wave pool, and a lazy river emulating those in the Mexican jungle). It is also part of the Paraiso resort complex along with four other five-star hotels.
"The Castle" has been recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the modern world since 2007. Today, it is one of the most visited spots on the planet, comparable to the Taj Mahal in India or the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Undoubtedly, its myth exerts a magnetic attraction on people from all cultures. However, this is only a small and recent part of the story. Below, we'll tell you more about its origins and the historical features that have shaped its legend. We'll also provide you with some curious facts you may not know but could be quite useful before embarking on your journey to Riviera Maya. For instance, do you know how many steps the Chichen Itza pyramid has or what's inside it?
Curiosities of the Chichen Itza Pyramid
How many steps does the Chichen Itza Pyramid have?
"The Castle" is a pyramid-like structure with four main facades and nine levels, crowned by a rectangular shrine at the top. It stands on a rectangular platform measuring 55.5 meters (182 feet) in width. Each side has 91 steps, plus an additional step to access the temple so it has a total of 365 steps—one for each day of the year. However, you won’t need a calendar carved in stone (or any other kind) to mark your upcoming vacation. Destinations like Riviera Maya or Cancun, also in Mexico, will take you to heaven all year round.
How tall is the Chichen Itza Pyramid?
You might be wondering, “Exactly how tall is the Chichen Itza Pyramid?”. From base to summit, it measures around 24 meters (79 feet) tall. To put it in perspective, its height is roughly equivalent to a seven-story building. According to ancient chronology, the descent of Kukulkan occurs on March 20 or 21 and September 22 or 23, coinciding with the spring and fall equinoxes. A light and shadow effect devised by the Maya allows us to observe how, literally, a 120-foot-long snake crawls down the temple until it joins a huge reptile head that rises at the end of the stairway. Twice a year, thousands of people from around the world gather to witness this spectacle, a masterpiece of astronomical engineering.
The Chichen Itza pyramid and the ancient customs surrounding its memory are just a small part of Mexico's rich and astonishing cultural heritage. To truly discover it, there's nothing like experiencing it firsthand. In Playa del Carmen, you'll find Iberostar Waves Quetzal, an Earth Check-certified hotel that helps protect the tropical rainforest, and Iberostar Waves Tucán, an oasis of peace from which you can also delve into Mayan culture. Hearing about it is good, but landing in paradise ready to live one of these experiences that changes your life, including your way of understanding the mysteries of the cosmos, is even better.