ARCHAEOLOGY

 

Near Merida you can visit spectacular archaeological zones such as Uxmal, Chichen Itza and Dzibilchaltun, which were built during the Classical Period (400-800 AD) and Post-Classical Period (1300-1521 AD). At those sites you can admire the architectural grandeur of Mayan culture.

 

Dzibilchaltun ? One of the oldest Mayan cities in the northern Yucatan region. It?s most important structure is el Templo de las Siete Munecas (the Temple of the Seven Dolls). This archaeological zone, which covers about 17 sq. km (nearly 7 sq. mi), also has an ecotourism park and the Museum of the Mayan People. Open daily from 8:00 to 6:00. Located 14 km (9 mi) north of Merida on Highway 261.

 

Ake ? From the middle of a huge square known as the Gran Plaza, you can gaze at the main buildings where the ruling class once lived. Particularly impressive is a limestone road, called a sacbe, which stretches 32 km (20 mi) and used to link the city to Izamal. Open daily from 8:00 to 6:00.

 

Uxmal ? This archaeological zone, located 80 km (50 mi) south of Merida on Highway 261, has palaces of majestic architecture. The city has 15 groups of buildings, including the Adivino Pyramid, an impressive structure that is 35 meters (115 feet) tall, and the Palacio del Gobernador (Governor?s Palace), considered one of the most beautiful constructions of Mesoamerica. Don?t miss out on the magical experience of Uxmal?s sound and light show. Open daily from 8:00 to 6:00.

 

Chichen Itza ? Considered one of the most important capitals of Mayan culture, here you can admire spectacular constructions such as El Castillo (The Castle) and the Kukulcan Temple, El Observatorio (The Observatory), the Caracol and the largest ball court discovered in the Mesoamerican region. There is also the Sagrado sinkhole, which is 30 meters (100 feet) wide in diameter. Located 121 km (75 mi) east of Merida on Highway 180. Open daily from 8:00 to 6:00.