El Castillo
El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulcán, is a Mesoamerican step-pyramid that dominates the center of the Chichen Itza archaeological site in the Mexican state of Yucatán. Here are key details about this iconic structure:
History and Construction
- Construction Period: The pyramid was built during the Classic Period of Mesoamerican chronology, likely between the 8th and 12th centuries AD.
- Cultural Significance: It was constructed by the Maya civilization, possibly to honor the serpent deity Kukulcán, the Maya equivalent of the Aztec god Quetzalcoatl.
- Architectural Features:
- The pyramid has 91 steps on each of its four sides, totaling 364 steps. Including the top platform, this makes 365 steps, symbolizing the solar year.
- The structure is 30 meters high (98 feet).
- There are nine terraces, each divided by a staircase.
- Alignment: El Castillo is aligned with the cardinal points, and during the equinoxes, the setting sun casts a shadow on the northwest balustrade, creating the illusion of a serpent descending the stairs.
Astronomical and Mathematical Significance
- Equinox Phenomenon: Twice a year, in the spring and autumn equinoxes, the setting sun casts a shadow in such a way that it looks like a serpent is descending the steps, symbolizing the descent of Kukulcán.
- Chac Mool: At the top of the pyramid, there is a platform where a statue known as Chac Mool sits, believed to be used for offerings during religious ceremonies.
Modern Significance and Tourism
- World Heritage Site: Chichen Itza, where El Castillo stands, was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988.
- Tourism: It attracts thousands of visitors daily, with special events during the equinoxes drawing large crowds to witness the serpent shadow phenomenon.
Archaeological Discoveries
- Excavations have revealed that El Castillo was built over an older pyramid, which in turn was constructed over an even older structure, indicating a long history of construction and reconstruction.
- In 2006, a team from the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) discovered a red-painted jaguar throne and a chamber with a red-painted figure in the pyramid's interior.
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