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The archaeological sites of Mexico are part of the greatness that our ancestors left us. They have become a legacy and a treasure for Mexicans and a great attraction for visitors from other countries.
Visiting them will not only be a good experience but also a very enriching one. Here are the most significant archaeological sites in Mexico that every traveler should be aware of.
Chichen Itza, known as one of the 7 Wonders of the Modern World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico.
During the equinoxes, the Pyramid of Kukulkan creates a shadow effect with the sunlight that shows the figure of the god Kukulkan as the famous feathered serpent. This amazing event happens twice a year, during the spring and fall equinoxes, when thousands of national and foreign visitors come to see this unique moment. Another surprising detail of “El Castillo” is its echo; when you clap in front of it, you can hear a sound that resembles the sound of a quetzal bird.
Besides the Pyramid of Kukulkan, Chichen Itza has other impressive structures such as the Great Ball Court, the Platform of Venus, the Temple of the Warriors, and even the Sacred Cenote. You can enjoy them during the day under the warm sun or at night under the stars with its beautiful light show.
The archaeological site of Uxmal is also located in the Yucatan region. Its Pirámide del Adivino (Pyramid of the Magician) and the Nunnery Quadrangle show the greatness of Mayan architecture. In general, all its buildings have a Puuc style, which means they have stone mosaics and beautiful decorations on their façades.
Just like Chichen Itza, Uxmal can be visited during the day to explore it calmly or at night to enjoy its structures illuminated during the light show.
The Mayans did not only live in the Yucatan Peninsula; they also built an important city in another region of Mexico, Palenque, located in Chiapas.
This ancient civilization built Palenque, known as one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico, during the Classic period. It is located in the heart of the Chiapas jungle and is surrounded by the natural flora and fauna of the region. Palenque is such an important site that it has been part of the UNESCO World Heritage list since 1987.
Known as the “City of the Gods,” Teotihuacan is one of the most popular and important archaeological sites in Mexico. This city, part of the Aztec culture, has some of the largest pyramids in Mesoamerica, such as the famous Pyramid of the Sun, which is 65 meters high and 225 meters wide. It is also the third-largest pyramid from pre-Hispanic times. The first place belongs to Tikal, which reaches around 70 meters, and the second is the Great Pyramid of Cholula, which is 66 meters tall.
Would you believe there is an archaeological site on top of the mountains? Even though it may sound impossible, it’s true. Monte Albán is an archaeological site located in Oaxaca, right in the heart of the Central Valleys of Oaxaca, built on a mountain.
This pre-Hispanic city is also one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico. It is a large area built by the Zapotec culture, although it has been confirmed that several civilizations lived there over time.
The most important buildings in this Zapotec city are the Great Plaza, the South Platform, the Ball Game Court, and the Building of the Dancers.
Tulum is not only a bohemian city in the Riviera Maya, but it is also the most popular Mayan Ruins in the region. Monte Albán is located on the mountains, but Tulum creates a perfect contrast because this archaeological site is right on the shores of the Caribbean Sea.
Tulum is a complete mix of history, archaeology, and the Caribbean Sea. The best part is that, besides exploring the ruins, you can swim in its turquoise waters after your visit.
Declared a Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO, Calakmul is one of the most important Mayan cities located in Campeche. It is surrounded by vegetation, where it is very common for visitors to see animals from the jungle, such as deer, turkeys, and even monkeys. This happens very often because Calakmul is not only a cultural heritage site but also a natural reserve; it is part of the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve.
In fact, Calakmul is one of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico because its main pyramid is one of the tallest in the entire Mayan world, reaching 45 meters in height.
Something you should know about Calakmul is that it is not very easy to reach, but that is exactly what makes it so attractive. It is ideal for those who want to forget their problems for a while and enjoy something truly amazing.
The archaeological sites in Mexico are a reminder of our ancestors and our roots. Each one of them has stories to tell to anyone who visits, no matter where they come from.
Every site is a reflection of what Mexico is today and how magical it can be.
Dare to discover the best of Mexico!