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Excavate and Discover Chichen Itza

Priya Johnson
Dig through each question of the challenge and evaluate for yourselves how much you know about this Pre-Columbian city...
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Chichen Itza is one of the most-visited archeological sites in Mexico, with about 1.6 to 2 million tourists visiting each year.
Did You Know?
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The sacred site of Chichen Itza is situated in the eastern portion of the Yucatan state in Mexico.
Quick Fact
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The word 'Chichen' means 'mouth of wells', whereas 'Itza' stands for the Mayan tribe that lived during that time.
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Lots of stone structures have been renovated with many still under restoration. It's believed this site was a colorful one, with pigment shades like purple, red, green and blue used for exterior.
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Although priest Lakin Chan is credited for discovery of the site in 514 A.D, it was rediscovered in 1841 by American explorer John L. Stephens.
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Also referred to as El Castillo, this step pyramid reaches a height of 24m, making it the tallest structure within the Mayan ruins of Tulum.
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In 2007, the Temple of Kukulcán, which forms an iconic part of Chichen Itza was declared one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.
Interesting Fact
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Spanning over a vast area of 225 feet in width and 545 feet in length, this ball court is an open-sky ball court. Stand anywhere and whisper; your voice travels to the end of the court.
Did You Know?
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The Mayans were ardent astronomers and a lot of their beliefs and actions revolved around the movement and alignment of planet Venus.
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There's substantial evidence to believe the Toltecs invaded Chichen Itza, which is why certain monuments like the Pyramid of Kukulkan, etc. emanate a Toltec influence.
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According to legend, the serpent God visits the temple on an Equinox. As the shadow moves with the position of the Sun, it appears like the serpent is descending the steps.
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Until January 2006, people were allowed to climb El Castillo. After an 80-year-old woman fell to her death, climbing up the 91 stairs has been prohibited.
Did You Know?
Well done! You've come to the end of this excavation journey.