The Pyramid and the Descent of Kukulcan

The Descent of Kukulcán

We should bear in mind that on July 7th, 2007, the Kukulcán pyramid was declared one the new ‘Seven Wonders of the Modern World,' not solely because of its size, but because of its functionality as a gigantic calendar. The pyramid also performs a dazzling astronomical phenomenon which takes place during the equinox days, known as ‘the descent of Kukulcán.' This light and shadow occurrence lasts for approximately two hours a day, beginning at 4 pm in the evening on the days surrounding March 21st and September 22nd. During these days we welcome between 40 to 50 thousand visitors, a mix of both Mexicans and foreign travelers. Guides at Chichen provide more details about the formation process of the ‘light-and-shadow' serpent.

During the three most celebrated days which witnesses ‘the decent of Kukulcán' (the 19th, 20th and 21st of March), Chichen Itza hosts music, dances and theatrical performances organized in the interior of the site, as well as at the access door. If you do not mind large crowds gathered in one spot, then you should come on the 21st, the most attended day. Otherwise arriving a few days before or after guarantees a much more quiet stay, watching exactly the same phenomenon. Accommodation in Pisté, the neighboring village, is a bit difficult to come by during these days, so it is suggested that visitors seek accommodation at Valladolid, a city 40 Km away from Chichen Itza, with the added bonus of a shuttle bus departing to the site every 30 minutes.