The Spring Equinox is a special time of year for many people around the world. It marks the beginning of spring, a season of renewal, rebirth, and new beginnings. It's a time when the earth awakens from its winter slumber, and new life starts to emerge. It's also a time when day and night are equal in length, symbolizing balance and harmony in the universe. For many people, the Spring Equinox is a time of celebration and reflection.

Equinox around the globe

Chichen Itza, Mexico

One of the most popular places to witness the Spring Equinox is at the ancient Mayan ruins of Chichen Itza in Mexico. This magnificent site was once a thriving city of the Mayan civilization, and it's now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the Spring Equinox, visitors can witness the famous light and shadow show at the Kukulkan pyramid. As the sun rises, it casts a shadow that looks like a snake slithering down the steps of the pyramid. It's a truly mesmerizing sight that attracts thousands of tourists every year.

But why was the Kukulkan pyramid built in such a way that it creates this incredible shadow show during the Spring Equinox? Well, the Mayans were highly skilled astronomers, and they built their structures in alignment with the movements of the sun and other celestial bodies. The Kukulkan pyramid was built in such a way that the angle of the sun during the Spring Equinox creates a shadow that looks like a snake, which is significant in Mayan mythology. The snake was a symbol of rebirth and renewal, which is why the Spring Equinox was such an important time for the Mayans.

Witness the Equinox in Chichen Itza.

Stonehenge, United Kingdom

Another famous destination to witness the Spring Equinox is Stonehenge in the United Kingdom. This prehistoric monument is shrouded in mystery, and it's believed to have been built around 3000 BC. During the Spring Equinox, the sun rises directly above the Heel Stone, casting a beautiful orange glow over the entire site. Visitors can witness this magical moment and experience the energy and power of the ancient site.

But why did the ancient builders of Stonehenge choose to align their structure with the movements of the sun during the Spring Equinox? Like the Mayans, the people who built Stonehenge were highly skilled astronomers, and they built their structures in alignment with the movements of the stars and planets. The alignment of Stonehenge with the movements of the sun during the Spring Equinox is significant because it marks the beginning of spring, a time of new beginnings and renewal.

Monte Alban, Mexico

If you're looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, you might want to consider visiting Monte Alban in Mexico. This ancient Zapotec city was built on a mountaintop and offers stunning views of the surrounding valley. During the Spring Equinox, the sun shines directly through one of the city's temples, illuminating a stone tablet and marking the start of the new season. It's a peaceful and serene place to witness the Equinox, away from the crowds of tourists.

But why did the ancient Zapotecs choose to build their city in such a way that the sun would shine directly through one of their temples during the Spring Equinox? Like the Mayans and the builders of Stonehenge, the Zapotecs were skilled astronomers who built their structures in alignment with the movements of the stars and planets. The alignment of the temple at Monte Alban with the movements of the sun during the Spring Equinox is significant because it marks the beginning of the new agricultural season, a time of planting and growth.

The equinox in the United States

If you're looking for a destination that's closer to home, there are plenty of places in the United States to witness the Spring Equinox. One of the most popular destinations is the Cahokia Mounds in Illinois. This ancient city was once the largest in North America and features several mounds aligned with the movements of the sun. During the Spring Equinox, visitors can witness the sun rising directly over one of these mounds, creating a breathtaking sight.

So there you have it, some of the best places to witness the Spring Equinox around the world. Whether you choose to visit the ancient ruins of Chichen Itza or the mystical site of Stonehenge, you're sure to have a truly unforgettable experience. So pack your bags and get ready to witness one of the most magical events of the year!