Uxmal, The Jewel of the Puuc, is simply breathtaking & considered one of the most important of Mayan ruins! This Puuc ancient city had the element of surprise as we walked the path that opened up to the most awesome view nestled with the surrounding jungle.
Uxmal is very definitely a site that should be on your bucket list as far as visiting Mayan ruins! Uxmal dates back to pre 6th Century & is an amazing collection of Mayan ruins. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. Uxmal is no doubt one of the most important Mayan sites in Yucatan Mexico. Here is a rundown of the structures we viewed.
The City of Uxmal name means “built three times” representing the past, present & future of the Mayan history. The ruins are an easy drive from Merida & entry fee was very reasonal for what you will see & learn. Absolutely amazing visit for these two senior travelers. Grounds were easy enough to walk, stairs steep here and there but all in all easy to navigate!
Pyramid of the Magician
The Pyramid of the Magician is well over 100 ft high consisting of five temples! The story goes that the Pyramid was built overnight but with the many temples & size, I have my doubts but who knows for sure? Although not that long ago these ruins were open to tourists, you can no longer climb this Mayan site.
House of the Governor
The House of the Governor took thirty-three years to build using over 1200 workers. The “House” served as the residence of the Ruler of Uxmal & sits atop five levels.
La Casa de las Tortugas
Located within a short distance of The House of Governor is the La Casa de las Tortugas or The House of the Turtles decorated with you guessed it ‘turtles’.
For
To Mayans the turtle represented water & the earth. Held in esteem by the Mayans along with the jaguar & snake, the turtle had a role in the conception of life for the Mayans. The House of Turtles was built between 800 & 900 & is the simplest of buildings as far as adornment. For more on this very interesting subject check this out.
House of the Doves
Uxmal – Quadrangle of the Nunnery
The Nunnery consist of four palaces, each a different level from the others. It was built around 900-1000 & is named after the Nuns who were assigned there in the 1500’s because it did resemble a nunnery. For more info on this check this out.
Pok-ta-pok or Ball Court
This Mayan ball game Pok-ta-pok was played with a hard rubber ball using only their hips, elbows & knees – no hands – no head butts. It was not only a ‘game’ of entertainment but also a way to settle disagreements with what I can only imagine might end with a sacrificial death[s]. For a little more detail on this game check this out. Here is a shot of the ball court at Uxmal. Neither side of the court was level so not sure if this is due to settling over these thousands of years or not?
Other Photos from Uxmal trip!
Love all these pics thanks so much for sharing.
Happy you are enjoying!