Chichen Itza is arguably the most well known ruins site in Mexico. However, merely being the most famous does not necessarily mean that it is the best. Although we found this site to be interesting, due to its bikini clad, high healed visitors, we felt that this detracted from its ancient charm. The problem isn't the sight but rather its close proximity to Cancun which is like Mexico's Gold Coast.

The site covers an area of six square miles. It's primarily a combination of Toltec and Mayan creation. Only about thirty of the hundreds of buildings still remain for the viewing pleasure of tourists.

Some of the designs at Chichen Itza are similar to those from Uxmal. The site's main feature is the Pyramid of Kukulkan. Other interesting buildings include the Caracol or observatory which was used by Maya astronomers and the ball court. For a discussion of such ball courts see Monte Alban.

The Pelota Ball Court

Temple of the Thousand Columns

The Caracol or Observatory