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Chichen Itza Research Paper

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Situated on the Yucatan Peninsula, Chichen Itza is the most distinguished and largest Mayan site in Mexico. The prehistoric Mayan ruin of the city is a popular spot for tourists from around the world. The meaning behind Chichen Itza is “at the mouth of the well of the Itza”. Chichen Itza had a fundamental role in helping researchers gain more knowledge of Mayan people and history which makes the city a significant location. Chichen Itza, recently categorized as one of new Seven Wonders of the World, is a magnificent ancient city with many architectural structures which makes it one of the most famous attractions in the world. One of the main aspects that make Chichen Itza fascinating is the history behind the ancient city. Chichen Itza did not become a main …show more content…

One of the largest structures in Chichen Itza is the Temple of Warriors. It is also one of the most significant structures in Chichen Itza. Painted in brilliant colors, carvings of the Toltec warriors are engraved upon the columns of the temple. According to the author Mark Cartwright, the Great Ballcourt is the largest in Mesoamerica (ancient.eu). The Great Ballcourt is bizarrely vertical with each end closed off by temple platforms. Although it is beautifully decorated, the attraction holds a grisly history. The captain of the losing team would be beheaded by the winning captain which was considered to be a huge honor to the Mayan people. One of the most noticeable features of Chichen Itza is the depiction of death among the structures of the city. Also known as the Wall of Skulls, the Tzompantli is an interesting structure yet holds a gruesome history. The decapitated heads which belonged to victims of sacrifice were placed on the Wall of Skulls. Skeletal parts were discovered in the Tzompantli, which exemplifies the amount of dedication the Mayan people

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