El Caracol Collection

El Caracol observatory temple, Chichen Itza, Mexico (chromolitho)
1094264 El Caracol observatory temple, Chichen Itza, Mexico (chromolitho) by French School, (19th century); Private Collection; (add.info.: El Caracol observatory temple, Chichen Itza, Mexico)

El Caracol o Templo Masonico Views Aztec Maya
El Caracol o Templo Masonico, Views of Aztec, Maya, and Zapotec ruins in Mexico, Charnay, Desire, 1828-1915, Gelatin developing out paper (d.o.p.), 1882, Title from annotations on verso

View from top of ancient Mayan structure in Chichen Itza. Central America, Mexico
View from top of ancient Mayan structure in Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico

Ancient Mayan ballgame hoop in Chichen Itza sport court. Central America, Mexico
Ancient Mayan ballgame hoop in Chichen Itza sport court, Yucatan, Mexico

The Snail, Observatory, Chichen Itza
Yucatan, Mexico

The Snail, Observatory, Chichen Itza
Yucatan, Mexico

Mayan ruins El Caracol observatory temple at Chichen Itza. Central America
Mayan ruins El Caracol observatory temple at Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico

Mexico, Yucatan, Chichen Itza, Mayan archeological site, El Caracol, circular astronomical observatory UNESCO World Heritage Site

Mexico, Yucatan State, Chichen Itza, El Caracol, Circular astronomical observatory
Mexico - Yucatan - Chichen Itza, archaeological site built by the Maya civilization (UNESCO World Heritage List, 1988) - El Caracol, a circular astronomical observatory

Ancient Mayan stone artwork on a wall in Chichen Itza. Central America, Mexico, Yucatan Penisula

Close up of stones making an ancient Mayan building in Chichen Itza. Central America, Mexico, Yucatan Penisula

Tourists climbing stairs of El Castillo, stone ruins in Chichen Itza. Central America, Mexico, Yucatan Peninsula

Tourists walk past an unrestored side of El Castillo, one of the Mayan structures in Chichen Itza. Central America, Mexico, Yucatan Peninsula

Mexico, Yucatan, Chichen Itza, view of Mayan ruins of El Caracol (the Observatory) from Mayaland Hotel at sunset. (PR)

El Caracol (the Snail) (Observatory), Chichen Itza, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Yucatan, Mexico, North America

El Caracol, Mayan observatory, where windwos align with certain stars, Chichen-Itza, UNESCO World Heritage Site, Yucatan, Mexico, North America

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"Discovering the Mysteries of El Caracol: The Ancient Observatory at Chichen Itza" Step back in time and explore the fascinating world of El Caracol, also known as "The Snail, " an extraordinary astronomical observatory nestled within the majestic ruins of Chichen Itza. This captivating structure, often overshadowed by its neighboring Pyramid of Kukulkan or El Castillo (The Castle), holds a wealth of secrets waiting to be unraveled. As you ascend to the top of this ancient Mayan marvel, you'll be greeted with breathtaking views that stretch across Central America's lush landscapes. From here, one can truly appreciate the ingenuity and precision with which El Caracol was designed. Its circular shape perfectly aligns with celestial events, allowing Mayan astronomers to observe and predict astronomical phenomena such as solstices and equinoxes. Immerse yourself in history as you wander through the remnants of Chichen Itza's sport court, where an ancient Mayan ballgame once took place. Imagine the cheers echoing through time as players aimed for victory by shooting a rubber ball through stone hoops suspended high above their heads. El Caracol is not only a testament to Mayan architectural brilliance but also showcases influences from other Mesoamerican cultures like Aztec and Masonic traditions. Its significance has earned it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, preserving its cultural importance for generations to come. Located near Cancun in Quintana Roo, Mexico, this enigmatic site offers visitors a chance to delve into Mexico's rich past. As you explore Yucatan State's archaeological gem – Chichen Itza – prepare to be awestruck by El Caracol's grandeur and its role in unraveling ancient mysteries. Uncover the wonders hidden within these sacred walls; let your imagination soar amidst centuries-old stories whispered by each stone block meticulously placed together.