My parents had already been to Chichen Itza, so they stayed back at the resort while we headed out to see the Mayan ruins. It was about a three-hour trip there, but we figured we couldn't really come that close and not go. Chichen Itza is one of the "New Seven Wonders of the World."
Some of us got a little rest on the way there.
Our tour stopped at a cenote (big sinkhole) where we could swim.
Drew, Bev and Jessi got in. The waters are supposed to have "healing qualities." I wanted the benefits of the water, but didn't want to get wet. We then went to a "Mayan village" which is filled with vendors and a restaurant.
After eating, we headed to Chichen Itza. El Castillo is the main pyramid. It used to be open to the public, but I have to say that I am glad it isn't now. It is tall and those stairs are steep. My brother and sister climbed it when they were there a few years ago.
There is a lot of symbolism in the number of steps and the depiction of different characters on the stone.
Entrance to The Great Ball Court.
The game was played sort of like basketball, except that one had to make baskets without using hands. The game sometimes ended with human sacrifice.
After the tour, we were hot and tired, so we took a little rest in the shade of the pyramid.
Temple of the Warriors.
Temple of a Thousand Warriors.
There are vendors all over the grounds. Mike used his mad bargaining skills to help the kids score some treasures.
We learned all about the Mayan Calendar, and the end of it coming soon.
Christian picked a whistle that when you blow into it, makes the sound of a jaguar.
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