Uxmal

An architectural masterpiece of the Mayas

Set within a region that is rich in vegetation and abundant in bird life, the Uxmal archaeological site features the remains of one of the most important Mayan cities. Here, simplicity of form and rich decoration are elegantly combined. Uxmal is located 50 miles south of Merida, the capital of the state of Yucatan. Access is provided via Highway 261, and the typical drive time is approximately 1 hour.

The "Oracle's Pyramid" is a key monument, striking both for the purity of its lines and its baroque appearance. Notably, it was created by the systematic repetition of the mask of Chac, the Rain God. Further a field the "Nuns' Quadrangle," the pelota (ball game) court, the "House of the Turtles" and the "Governor's Palace" - the most complete pre-Columbian construction still standing - inspire awe of masterful architecture. An impressive light & sound show delights visitors every night, enhancing the ruins' grandiose and mystic feel.

The city achieved its greatest glory between 800 and 1000 AD, although its decline did not apparently come as a consequence of the rise of Chichen Itza to the east. The bulk of the structures we see today are multi-roomed, and are thought to be the homes of a large and powerful elite class. Archeologists can only guess at how many thousands of peasants, living in the surrounding countryside, where commanded by these warrior nobles. Exquisite carving, mosaics and other decorations typify many of the structures, which represent some of the finest achievements of what is known as the Puuc architectural style.

Some very fine carved stelae have been discovered here, and the study of their inscriptions and those found on the buildings themselves has played an important role in the ongoing decoding of Mayan writing. Most Mayan numbers, more than half of their alphabet, and many other important symbols, or glyphs, have now been deciphered by the experts, and the evidence from Uxmal has provided essential clues in solving this ancient mystery.

Paradoxically, not that much is known about the civilization here. Only one ruler, Lord Chac, has been specifically identified. The people may have been less war-like than some of their cousins in the other Mayan city-states, as there are few of the monuments and inscriptions celebrating victory in battle that are so prevalent at other sites. Being reasonably close to the coast, Uxmal probably engaged in considerable trade; agriculture and perhaps salt production were other key industries. The large ball court tells us that sports and recreation - at least for the upper classes - were also part of life in Uxmal.

The buildings are heroic in scope and majesty, yet are covered with gorgeous, finely detailed art. The entire site imbued with a rare power, as if the spirit of the Mayan nobles remained on their land, whispering the epic secrets of their ancient world to the visitors of today.

Entrance fee to the archaeological zone: approx. 110 pesos/person
The light & sound show is presented at 7 p.m. or 8 p.m. depending on the season (extra cover charge). Headphones with translation in German, French, English and Italian are available.


Source: Mayaland Resorts & Villas Arqueologicas Hotels