Uxmal

Uxmal, 70 kilometers southwest of Mérida, is found in the Puuc Hills, a low range of hills in the southwest region of the Yucatán Peninsula. In this area, the Maya developed a magnificent style of architecture named Puuc, name after the hills in this region and characterized by immense palaces, pyramids, and temples decorated with three-dimensional mosaic stone friezes. Cities here were connected by roads called sacbes, which cut through the jungle and entered the towns through beautiful, vaulted archways, many of which can still be seen. The Puuc Hills are dotted with ruins (probably more than 200 are scattered in the area), with Uxmal being the largest and most impressive. Only a small portion of the massive site has been excavated and one wonders what is yet to come.Cuadrángle de Las Monjas (Quadrangle of the Nuns): Just beyond the Pyramid of the Soothsayer is a broad courtyard surrounded on four sides by large, richly embellished buildings. This large quadrangle reminded the Spaniards of the cloisters of a nunnery, hence its name.Juego de Pelota (Ball Court): Like most Mayan cities, Uxmal had its ceremonial ball court. Spectators watched from two thick walls, one on each side. This is a particularly well-preserved ball court and shouldn’t be missed.Palacio del Gobernador (Palace of the Governor): This gigantic building (almost 100 meters long, 12 meters wide, and 9 meters high) is one of the finest masterpieces of Mayan architecture. Its exterior is richly embellished with intricate stonework geometric patterns and friezes. Pirámide del Adivino (Pyramid of the Soothsayer): This is a most unusual, extremely dramatic building with rounded sides, and steps leading up on two sides to a temple crowning the top. From the summit, which is nearly 28 meters high, there is a stunning view.