UXMAL

THRICE BUILT

Enter the beautiful garden of Uxmal with the intentions of staying for the better part of the day.  This site is not small like Tulum, and has some of the most stunning views imaginable.  You can still climb the Great Pyramid, and climging up the false wall to see the Governors Palace is just one more way to gain an elevated perspective.

This site is said by some, to be the largest urban center boasting examples of the best puuc style architecture. Situated in the Puuc Hills, and surrounded by other sites such as Sayil, Labna, Grutas Loltun, Kabah, and Xlapak, a journey through the Puuc Route makes for a few interesting days. (Mayapan is situated between Merida and Ticul, enroute to Uxmal).

 Archaeologists believe Uxmal was actually built five times, however a mysterious legend claims there was a dwarf king who built the Magicians temple in just one night, to conquer the king. His mother’s house is said to be the "House of the old woman."

 This site is pretty large, and due to the extreme heat by afternoon, is nearly impossible to see on one day. The major temples include the Magicians Temple, Nunnery Quadrangle, Great Pyramid, and the Governors Palace. Dove Cots, which you can see from the road outside of the site, is a picturesque place to rest. If you are very interested in these ancient cities, spend the time to explore the smaller groups, such as the Cemetery group, North group, and the house of the old woman.

 When Stephens arrived here, he discovered some wooden panels which had travelled from El Peten Guatemala. All but one have since been destroyed, but one which resides in New York.

 Archaeologists agree that terracing played a large part in Uxmal's gardens growing, due to the leeching of nutrients in the soil. The false platform on which the Governors Palace is built, is an amazing site to see. It amazes me that any civilization could survive in this climate, where chultunes are abundant for gathering rain water because there is no water source at Uxmal.

The Ball Court at Uxmal is much smaller than the Great Ball Court of Chichen Itza.  Archaeologists believe the small space means there would have been fewer players in the game, possibly as few as 2 players in total.  It is also believed by those who played in these smaller courts did not face death at the end of the game.  The low, slanted walls would make the game much easier to play, and the hoop is suspended much lower than the hoop at Chichen Itza's Great Ball Court.  I am unsure if the hoop here is authentic- but if it is, it's also interesting to note how large the hole is, as the hoops in Chichen's court has a much smaller hole.

 

Sun tan lotion and an abundant supply of water are essentials at Uxmal. Shoes that cover the feet, and a hat are strongly recommended. I got heat exhaustion my first visit here. Afternoons are extreme. I would also recommend bringing your own picnic lunch, as the restaurant on site was still serving terrible food on my last visit in 2007.

Vertigo anyone?  This was the most terrifying climb of my life.  I'm glad I can longer be tempted!!