✓ Free Cancellation
    ENES
    +52 998 123 4567
    🏛️
    Chichen ItzaTOURS & EXCURSIONS
    El Castillo pyramid at Chichen Itza, ancient Maya wonder

    Chichen Itza History & Facts: Ancient Mayan Wonder

    Explore the fascinating 1,400-year history of one of the New Seven Wonders of the World — from its founding around 600 AD to its status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site today.

    Updated: April 2026 • 10 min read • Historical Guide

    Explore Tours

    Quick Facts

    Founded

    Around 600 AD

    Civilization

    Mayan & Toltec

    Wonder of the World

    Since 2007

    UNESCO

    Since 1988

    Historical Timeline

    • 600 AD
      Settlement begins; early Maya groups found Chichen Itza.
    • 800-900 AD
      Chichen Itza becomes a major regional center.
    • 987 AD
      The Toltec king Topiltzin Ce Acatl Quetzalcoatl arrives.
    • 1000-1200 AD
      Chichen Itza prospers as the capital of the Maya civilization.
    • 1221 AD
      The League of Mayapan is formed; Chichen Itza's power declines.
    • 1400 AD
      Chichen Itza is abandoned.
    • 1531 AD
      Spanish conquistadors arrive.
    • 1841 AD
      Archaeological exploration begins.
    • 1988 AD
      Chichen Itza is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
    • 2007 AD
      Chichen Itza is named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

    El Castillo Deep Dive

    El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulcán, is the most iconic structure at Chichen Itza. This 30-meter-tall stepped pyramid was built by the Maya civilization between the 9th and 12th centuries AD as a temple to the god Kukulcán (the Mayan version of Quetzalcoatl, the feathered serpent of Mesoamerican mythology).

    The pyramid's design is full of astronomical and religious symbolism. Each of its four sides has a staircase with 91 steps, which, when added to the top platform, totals 365 steps, one for each day of the year. During the spring and autumn equinoxes, sunlight casts triangular shadows on the north staircase, creating the illusion of a serpent descending the pyramid.

    The Serpent Equinox

    Visit during the spring and autumn equinoxes to witness the famous serpent descent on El Castillo.

    Key Structures

    • El Castillo (Temple of Kukulcán)

      The iconic step pyramid, dedicated to the feathered serpent god Kukulcán.

    • Great Ball Court

      The largest ball court in Mesoamerica, where ritual games were played.

    • Temple of Warriors

      A large stepped pyramid with carved pillars depicting warriors.

    • Group of a Thousand Columns

      A complex of columns and platforms near the Temple of Warriors.

    • Sacred Cenote

      A natural sinkhole used for sacrificial offerings.

    • The Observatory (El Caracol)

      A unique structure used for astronomical observations.

    Amazing Facts

    • El Castillo has 365 steps, representing the days of the year.
    • During the equinoxes, a serpent shadow appears on El Castillo.
    • The Great Ball Court is larger than a football field.
    • The Sacred Cenote was used for sacrificial offerings, including human sacrifices.
    • Chichen Itza was a major center for astronomy and mathematics.
    • The site shows a blend of Maya and Toltec architectural styles.
    Got Questions?

    Chichen Itza History FAQs

    Answers to common questions about Chichen Itza history and facts

    Chichen Itza was founded around 600 AD, but it rose to prominence between 850 and 1200 AD when it became the capital of the Maya civilization in the Yucatan.

    In Mayan, 'Chi' means mouth, 'Chen' means well, and 'Itza' is the name of the Maya people who settled there. So Chichen Itza translates to 'At the mouth of the well of the Itza people'.

    Chichen Itza was built by the Maya civilization, with significant influence from the Toltecs who migrated from central Mexico around the 10th century AD.

    Chichen Itza was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007 due to its advanced architecture, historical significance, and the iconic El Castillo pyramid.

    El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulcán, is the central pyramid at Chichen Itza. It stands 30 meters tall and has 365 steps (total from all sides), representing the days of the year. During the spring and fall equinoxes, a shadow in the shape of a serpent appears on the pyramid's staircase.

    Yes, Chichen Itza was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, recognizing its cultural and historical importance as one of the best examples of Mayan-Toltec civilization in the Yucatan.

    Chichen Itza declined as a major power around the 13th century, and the capital shifted to Mayapan. The reasons for the decline are not entirely clear but may involve political instability, warfare, and environmental factors.

    No, climbing El Castillo has been prohibited since 2006 to protect the ancient structure from further damage. However, you can still explore the base and admire the pyramid up close.

    Check Availability

    Find your perfect tour in seconds

    2
    Check Availability

    ✓ Free cancellation · ✓ No payment required now

    Free Cancellation

    Up to 24 hours before

    Instant Confirmation

    Booking confirmed immediately

    Best Price Guarantee

    Find it cheaper? We'll match

    Secure Checkout

    256-bit SSL encryption

    🔥 Popular Tours

    Classic Day Tour

    Classic Day Tour

    4.8 (2,847)

    From $89

    Cenote Ik Kil Combo

    Cenote Ik Kil Combo

    4.7 (1,567)

    From $99

    Private VIP Tour

    Private VIP Tour

    4.9 (1,243)

    From $189

    Ready to Explore Chichen Itza?

    Book your tour today and experience one of the world's most incredible archaeological wonders. Free cancellation on all bookings.

    Browse All Tours Request a Free Quote

    Explore More Guides & Tours

    Chichen Itza ToursBest Time to VisitWhat to BringHow to Get ThereEntrance FeesSunrise ToursPrivate ToursNight ToursTours from CancunTours from Playa del Carmen