Have you only heard about Chichen Itza and other Mayan ruins of Mexico? In this article, we show you where to visit the Mayan Pyramids in Mexico ☀︎We introduce you to the five winners of our award ceremony! *Drums sound in the background* 🥁🥁🥁
- Coba 💛
- Uxmal 🧡
- Palenque 💜
- Calakmul 💙
- Chichen Itza 🤍
Bonus…
History buffs from all over the world come year after year. They get enchanted by the mystical vibes surrounding these monuments, full of mysticism and energy. Let’s discover together where to see the Mayan Pyramids in Mexico!
1. Coba (winner) 🥇
The best to start our journey is Coba. This place is home to one of the tallest Mayan Pyramids in Mexico. The Coba ruins emerge as a captivating archaeological site that transports visitors to a bygone era.
Located in the Yucatan Peninsula, Coba offers a unique and immersive experience. It invites explorers to uncover the mysteries of the past. The pyramid’s actual name is Nohoch Mul, which has 120 steps and a height of 137.8 feet. Moreover, it was a commercial city with over 50,000 people.
Certainly…
The most impressive thing about Coba is the lush vegetation, lakes, and, of course, the stairs. On a side note, the best time to visit these Mayan Pyramids in Mexico is in the morning, as the sunlight is less intense. Definitely a must-see of the Mayan ruins of Mexico. You will find the Coba Lagoon, which has a stunning natural landscape. Also, you can visit nearby cenotes such as the Choo-Ha and Tankach-Ha. *Aplausses sounds in the background* 👏👏👏 Yeii!!
2. Uxmal 🧡
This is another popular UNESCO-certified archaeological site on the western side of Yucatan. It is one of the Maya culture cities whose architecture is one of the most majestic in the country. Deep in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula, Uxmal stands as a testament to the remarkable achievements of the Mayan civilization. As you enter this archaeological wonder, awe washes over you. Uxmal is not just a collection of ruins; it is a living testament to the ingenuity and artistry of an ancient era.
Archeologists believe…
that the city of Uxmal was founded by the Xiues tribe. Indeed, the importance of Uxmal has to do with the amount of work invested in constructing its buildings. The dominant building in this city is, without a doubt, the Pyramid of the Magician. Legend has it that it was built in a single night.
Somewhat unlikely, as it consists of five structures from different eras. Its structure intends to have the western staircase facing the sun at sunset on the summer solstice. On the other hand, The Quadrangle of the Nuns is another architectural complex of great importance in Uxmal.
3. Palenque 💜
Contrary to the previous Mayan Pyramids in Mexico, these are not located in Yucatan. The archaeological zone of Palenque is located in Chiapas, almost on the border with Guatemala. Palenque was the most important center of the Mayan Culture; it is so large that it has not yet been fully explored.
Some tourists say this is like a mini-version of the famous Chichen Itza. What do you think? I think this place is more than iconic; it is possibly one of the best Mayan ruins of Mexico ever discovered. The ruins of Palenque transport visitors back in time, revealing an ancient city full of mystery and rich historical significance. As you wander the site, you’ll be captivated by the incredible architecture and beautiful stone carvings that adorn the temples and palaces.
The Palace…
Its towering structures and courtyards show a sense of grandeur and elegance. The surrounding rainforest increases the magic of the place. Indeed, it immerses you in a world where the echoes of the past still linger. Exploring Palenque is like unraveling a captivating story that leaves you in awe of the Mayan ingenuity and longing to uncover even more secrets within its ancient walls.
Indeed, its discovery has been one of the most important archaeological finds. It is evident that the tomb was first and then the pyramid. This Mayan Pyramid in Mexico is called the Temple of the Inscriptions, and it has a height of 72 feet. The Temple of the Inscriptions, with its inscribed hieroglyphs and burial chamber, offers a fascinating glimpse into the rituals and beliefs of the Maya.
Moreover…
It is located in the middle of the jungle and is accompanied by songs of exotic birds and howling monkeys. In its surroundings, you will find one of the most important museums of Mayan archeology. The Palenque Museum has six rooms that present, among other things, 234 artifacts found in the region.
4. Calakmul 💙
Calakmul was the largest city in the Mayan Civilization; nobody lived there for almost two millennia. Here, you will find “Structure II,” the most important building on the entire archaeological site. Located in the state of Campeche, it is one of the largest Mayan Pyramids in Mexico and covers an area of almost 2 hectares.
The Calakmul Biosphere Reserve is one of the country’s most important natural and cultural treasures. Additionally, it is the second-largest protected natural area, with the largest tropical forest reserve. This place is inhabited by felines such as pumas, jaguars, and ocelots. Also, more friendly representatives of the natural world, such as the spider monkey. Access to this archaeological zone is not as easy; therefore, fewer visitors than usual. The nearest town is two hours away, but it’s well worth it.
And so…
As our exhilarating expedition draws to a close, let us reflect on the enduring legacy of the Mayan pyramids in Mexico. These ancient structures, with their fantastic architecture and deep cultural significance, stand as testaments to human imagination and innovation. They remind us that even in the face of time’s relentless march, the spirit of creativity and the thirst for knowledge endure.
5. Chichen Itza 🤍
Indeed, this is one of Mexico’s most famous and most visited Mayan Pyramids. The Kukulkan Pyramid is one of Chichen Itza’s main attractions, over 78ft high. Moreover, along with the platform at the top, it has a total of 365 steps, symbolizing the length of the year in the Mayan calendar. It dates from around 1000 AD.
Further, it is one of the best-preserved Mayan Pyramids in Mexico. With 365 steps, it stands out for its two enormous serpent heads that refer to this god (Kukulkan). Also known as Quetzalcoatl or feathered serpent. This place must be on your bucket list if you are into history. It’s a must of the Mayan ruins of Mexico!
Since the postclassic period, Kukulkan has been an example of the astronomical knowledge of the Mayan people. Amazingly, the play of light and shadow by the sun’s rays allows the body of a serpent descending from the temple to be simulated.
This effect symbolized the descent of the god Kukulkan to Earth. This period of spring equinox coincided with the arrival of rain in the area. You can also be interested in the ruins of ancient Zama, which are located within the Tulum National Park. A natural space in which the imposing beach is situated on the walled complex stands.
Indeed,
This place is a must-visit spot to connect with mother nature and Mexican culture. Let the Mayan pyramids symbolize resilience, reminding us that no challenge is insurmountable and no dream is too grand. They teach us that greatness lies not only in the final result but also in the journey itself.
With each step we take, we honor the craftsmanship of those who came before us and pave the way for those who will follow in our footsteps. If you dream it, you can do it! There are more than 4,400 Mayan sites, many of them located in Latin America. These are some of the must-visit Mayan Pyramids in Mexico.
Brief background history 🤠
The Mayan Pyramids in Mexico date back to 3,000 years ago and are perhaps the greatest tourist attraction. There used to be two types of pyramids: one for sacrificial rituals and another one for sacred ceremonies. Many pyramids also rose above the jungle to serve as landmarks for the population. These magnificent buildings were closely linked to their beliefs and connection with the supreme.
You will be impressed when you see that there’s more than the impressive Chichen Itza. The meaning of the Mayan pyramids in Mexico is quite broad, although primarily religious. These constructions mean spirituality and greatness. Their large size is taken with 2 meanings:
- They represent the height of their gods.
- So that worshipers could climb to the top and come in closer contact with the gods.
Conclusion 🤓
Unfortunately, dear adventurers and history enthusiasts, our journey through the Mayan pyramids in Mexico has ended. The Mayan pyramids are more than just ancient structures; they are gateways to a world of mystery, beauty, and unparalleled human ingenuity.
We started our adventure in the iconic Chichen Itza, a marvel of architectural prowess. The grandeur and intricate design captivate us, reminding us of the rich tapestry of history woven by the Mayan civilization. But as we dug deeper, we discovered that Chichen Itza was just the tip of the pyramid, so to speak.
Our journey…
Led us to uncover the hidden treasures of Coba, where the mighty Nohoch Mul Pyramid stood tall in the middle of the jungle. The climb to its summit was not only a physical challenge but a spiritual one. Once there, we marveled at the breathtaking landscape that stretched before us, realizing that the Maya people were deeply connected with the natural world around them.
Uxmal, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, amazed us with its incredible ruins. The Pyramid of the Magician seemed to whisper ancient secrets, and we eagerly listened, letting the stories of the past come alive. Each step we took in Uxmal brought us closer to understanding the genius of the Maya people, who crafted these masterpieces without the aid of modern technology.
Strayed in legend and mystery, Palenque embraced us with its enigmatic aura. As we wandered through its ruins, we felt a profound reverence for the ancient spirits that still lingered there. The Palace and the Temple of the Inscriptions let us imagine what life was like in this ancient city centuries ago. We were reminded that the Mayan pyramids were not just stone structures but cultural, commerce, and spirituality centers.
Last but not least,
Our quest led us to Calakmul, a hidden gem deep in Mexico’s jungles. Its remoteness only heightened the sense of adventure as we explored its towering pyramids, once the heart of a mighty kingdom. As we gazed upon the vast expanse of the rainforest from the top, we realized the power and resilience of the Maya civilization, which flourished in harmony with nature.
Importance of Mayan Ruins of Mexico 🔺
Dear adventurers, the Mayan pyramids in Mexico have unveiled their secrets, inviting us to embrace the spirit of exploration and discovery. They remind us that the past is not a distant memory but a living, breathing force that shapes our present and future.
Let us carry the wisdom and inspiration from these ancient wonders in our hearts as we continue to explore and learn from the world around us! Mayan pyramids in Mexico are more than just tourist attractions. They are gateways to a deeper understanding of humanity’s remarkable achievements and our profound connections with nature and our ancestors.
Every piece of these temples has a magical and splendid history that continues to marvel at thousands of adventurers daily. Therefore, what are you waiting for to visit them?
So, as you plan your next adventure, remember to delve beyond the well-known Chichen Itza and venture into the magical and mystical realms of Coba, Uxmal, Palenque, and Calakmul. Discover and feel the magic and the mysteries, and let the Mayan pyramids ignite the spark of curiosity within you. Happy exploring!
Let us not forget the dedicated archaeologists, historians, and preservationists who have worked tirelessly to uncover their secrets and preserve their splendor for future generations.
Their efforts allow us to connect with the past and learn from the wisdom of those who came before us. In the comment section below, let us know what you think about our winners and which one you would like to know.