On March 21, the sun will cast the shadow of a snake on the El Castillo step pyramid at Chichén Itzá. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is also one of the New Seven Wonders of the World, is located in the Yucatán state of Mexico.
Designed by Maya architects, this lighting effect only occurs twice per year. This rarity draws thousands of tourists during the spring and autumnal equinoxes, the latter of which will occur on September 22.
The shadow exemplifies the Maya culture’s deep understanding of astronomy and mathematics, as well as their reverence for Kukulkan, a feathered serpent deity.
Table of Contents
The Significance of Kukulkan in Indigenous Mexican Cultures
Depictions of Kukulkan appear throughout Chichén Itzá, as well as other Yucatán sites including the ancient Maya cities of Uxmal and Mayapán.
According to WorldHistory.org, the image of Kukulkan dates as early as the Olmec civilization, which prospered from approximately 1200 BCE to 400 BCE. Mythology and religion present Kukulkan as a creator god who possesses power over rain and winds.
In addition to religious association, Kukulkan is believed to have been a human ruler or priest who visited or perhaps even founded Chichén Itzá.
About Chichén Itzá and the Temple of Kukulkan
Per its official tourism website, Chichén Itzá was first used as a ceremonial center from approximately 550 CE to 800 CE. Significant development of the city-state occurred around 1200 CE, resulting in the 26 Maya ruins seen today.
Among these, El Castillo — also referred to as The Castle or the Temple of Kukulkan — is one of the most prominent. This four-sided pyramid reaches a height of 30 meters or roughly 100 feet. It comprises nine platforms and features a rectangular temple on top.
Ninety-one steps appear on each side of the pyramid, and there’s an extra step leading up to the temple. This totals 365 steps, which aligns with the typical number of days in a year.
Starting around 3:45 pm on the spring and autumnal equinoxes, the shadow of Kukulkan materializes on the stone balustrade of the northern staircase, whose base features a snake head sculpture.
Because of the pyramid’s platforms, the setting sun projects seven lit triangles onto the façade of the balustrade. As it moves across the sky, it appears as though the serpent’s body is descending the structure.
How to Visit Chichén Itzá During the Equinox
According to MayanPeninsula.com, the shadow of Kukulkan is best depicted at 4:30 pm on the spring equinox. The effect can also be seen two or three days before and after March 21. For fewer crowds, it’s recommended to visit on these shoulder dates or around the autumnal equinox.
Those who opt for the most popular viewing window should arrive at Chichén Itzá hours before the lighting effect takes place. Interested visitors should also book tickets, transportation, and lodging as soon as possible.
Valladolid hotels may be ideal, as the city is located just 45 minutes from Chichén Itzá. Rent a car or take an ADO bus down the well-traveled Highway 180D. Alternatively, consider booking one of several Chichén Itzá tours from Cancún, Tulum, Playa Del Carmen, or Mérida.
