Uxmal was once the capital of an ancient Maya civilization located in the Yucatán’s Puuc region. The city flourished from 700-1000 A.D. It’s puuc-style architecture features many intricate carvings and geometric mosaics. Stucco masks depicting the rain god Chac adorn many of the buildings, not surprising given the scarcity of water in this region. It is speculated that the severe drought conditions led to the abandonment of the site around 1000 A.D. Today, Uxmal is home to a population of enormous iguanas, some nearly the size of a small dog. They’re everywhere, sunning themselves on the ancient structures and it’s possible to get within a few feet of the giant creatures before they retreat back into hiding. Uxmal was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996.
From the World Heritage inscription:
The Mayan town of Uxmal, in Yucatán, was founded c. A.D. 700 and had some 25,000 inhabitants. The layout of the buildings, which date from between 700 and 1000, reveals a knowledge of astronomy. The Pyramid of the Soothsayer, as the Spaniards called it, dominates the ceremonial centre, which has well-designed buildings decorated with a profusion of symbolic motifs and sculptures depicting Chaac, the god of rain. The ceremonial sites of Uxmal, Kabah, Labna and Sayil are considered the high points of Mayan art and architecture.
Uxmal is located roughly an hour south of the city of Mérida. If you’ve purchased cheap flights to Mexico you’ll have the opportunity to visit Uxmal. International flights arrive at Merida International Airport and Cancun International Airport.
Photo credit: via flickr
