A map show the layout of the Chichen Itza Complex. The Maya have utilized this location since about 400 ad. The complex was abandoned in the 1300's. So when then Spanish came - the ruins were crumbling and covered by the jungle. The size of the complex is approximate 5 square km.
El Caracol - the Snail. This is an observatory - their is a circular staircase inside the dome. The 8 tiny windows precisely align with the points of the compass rose.
One of the most undisputed facts regarding the Maya was their unique ability to predict movements in the stars. Most of the complex are aligned with the sun and the seasons. The May could accurately predict the orbits of Venus, The moon, comets and also eclipses.
Anexo de las Monjas - Temple of the Monks. Was considered to be the entrance to the underworld
The façade of the Temple of the Monks has an elaborate relief of the Rain God Chaac.
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