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Chichen Itza, one of the world's most iconic archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will celebrate its 17th anniversary as a Wonder of the World on July 7, 2024.
It all began on July 7, 2007, in Lisbon, Portugal, when Chichen Itza was declared one of the 7 most impressive Wonders of the Modern World. The majestic Temple of Kukulkan played a significant role in securing this prestigious title for the archaeological site. This recognition not only highlights the magnificence of its structures, architecture, and complexity but also emphasizes the importance of preserving and studying our historical heritage.
Chichen Itza is one of the most advanced Mayan cities in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica. The name ‘Chichen Itza’ means ‘mouth of the well of the Itzaes’ in the Mayan language. But who were the Itzaes? The Itzaes were the ruling group of the region during the Postclassic period (900-1200 AD).
The ‘mouth of the well of the Itzaes’ also refers to the Sacred Cenote, a natural well that provided water throughout the year but was also used for human sacrifices and offerings. Many valuable objects have been discovered in this cenote, indicating its significance to the civilization.
For the Mayans, the cenote was crucial as they believed it was a portal to the underworld, known in their culture as Xibalba.
Located in the heart of the Yucatan Peninsula, Chichen Itza was founded around 515 AD and abandoned around 1095 AD. Its peak came during the Late Classic and Postclassic periods when many of the monumental structures we know today were built, such as the Great Ball Court, Temple of the Warriors, Group of a Thousand Columns, and El Caracol.
The first explorations of the Mayan civilization in Chichen Itza were conducted by explorers John Lloyd Stephens and Frederick Catherwood in 1843. They published their findings in the book “Incidents of Travel in Yucatan” after visiting the site. Their work and publication sparked interest in further expeditions to Chichen Itza, leading to more discoveries.
In the 20th century, the Carnegie Institution of Washington carried out significant excavations and restorations under the direction of Sylvanus Morley, which helped preserve the site and enhance our understanding of the Mayan civilization.
UNESCO declared Chichen Itza a World Heritage Site in 1988 to emphasize the cultural and natural importance of the site and its preservation.
Later, on July 7, 2007, Chichen Itza was named one of the New Seven Wonders of the World through a voting process organized by the New7Wonders Foundation. Over 100 million people worldwide participated in the vote, selecting Chichen Itza based on criteria such as beauty, historical value, cultural significance, and architectural brilliance.
This international recognition has significantly increased Chichen Itza’s visibility, attracting millions of visitors each year and highlighting the importance of preserving this historic site.
Chichen Itza remains a symbol of the ingenuity and creativity of the Mayan civilization. Each year, more than 2.5 million tourists visit the site to marvel at its monuments and learn about the rich history and culture of the Mayans.
Moreover, Chichen Itza serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving our cultural heritage. Mexican authorities, in collaboration with international organizations, continue to work to protect and restore the site, ensuring that future generations can enjoy this wonder of the world.
As Chichen Itza celebrates 17 years as a Wonder of the World, it continues to stand as a testament to the greatness of the Mayan civilization and a symbol of humanity's cultural heritage. Its designation as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World has not only increased its international visibility but also underscored the importance of its preservation and ongoing study. By visiting Chichen Itza, we connect with the past and commit to protecting and valuing our cultural heritage for future generations.