Mayan Archaeological Sites in Yucatán
Archaeological Sites in Oaxaca
Archaeological Sites in Chiapas
Arqueología Campeche
Northern Mexico
Central Mexico
Central Mexico
Southern Mexico
Mayan Archaeological Sites in Yucatán
Archaeological Sites in Oaxaca
Arqueología Chihuahua
Arqueología Campeche
Northern Mexico
Central Mexico
Southern Mexico
Mayapán was a powerful urban center that eventually became the sole political and cultural force in the Yucatan.
It was one of the last major dynasties in the region and established itself as the center of Maya civilization from 1200 to 1440 A.D, ruling the provinces in the northwest and north-central region of the Yucatan peninsula.
Mayapán was referred to by several names, including Zaclactun (or Zaclactun Mayapán). Zaclactun means “the place where white pottery was made”, but it was also referred to as Ichpaa Mayapán (walled enclosure), and many other names.
Must see Buildings
This site has more than 4 thousand structures spread out over an area of around 4 square kilometers surrounded by a great wall, variety of trees and more than 20 cenotes, although the site’s main attractions are clustered in a compact core.
Mayapán
Central Plaza
The Central Plaza is bordered by government, administrative, religious and ruling class buildings. The architectural influence of Chichén Itzá is uncanny and seen in the main building, which is a smaller replica of the Castillo of Kukulcan (Kukulcán Castle) and it named the same way. This pyramid dominates the central plaza has nine tiers and stands about 15 meters (50 feet) tall. This is one of few sites where you can ascend to the top of the pyramid.
Kukulcán Castle
In the Kukulcán Castle also takes place the astronomical phenomenon of light and shadow similar to that of Chichén Itzá, where the sun illuminates the staircase representing the Kukulcan's descent to earth; the difference is that it occurs in the two solstices, the one in June and the other in December, instead of the equinoxes like in Chichén Itzá.
At the foot of the Castle is the Room of the Frescoes with several painted murals representing the scene of two solar discs and two richly dressed characters with sandals, plumes and bracelets. The reddish color is still faintly visible.
Templo Redondo (Round Temple)
This temple is vaguely reminiscent of El Caracol at Chichén Itzá and it seems to have been an observatory. The circular tower is built on a base which was divided into two semi-circular areas. In the site there are other round buildings.
Location
The site is just off Hwy 184, 2 kilometers southwest of the town of Telchaquillo and some 43 km southeast of Mérida (about 40 minutes).
Hours
Monday to Sunday from 8:00 to 17:00 hrs.
English 
Español de México 
