Chichén-Itzá, Mexico

Chichén-Itzá is a Mesoamerican archaeological site in the northern center of the Yucatán Peninsula, in the Yucatán state of Mexico. The site is one of the largest and most complex of the Maya ruins, with a total of 4 square miles. The site was a major political center of the Maya civilization from the Late Classic period through the Terminal Classic period. The Maya civilization was one of the most advanced civilizations of its time. They developed a complex system of writing, art, mathematics, and astronomy. The Maya were also skilled architects and engineers, and constructed some of the most impressive buildings and monuments in the ancient world. Chichén-Itzá was a major city of the Maya civilization, and was at its height during the Late Classic and Terminal Classic periods. The city was home to a large population of Maya nobles, priests, and other elites. The city was also a center of trade and commerce, and was connected to other Maya cities by a network of trade routes. The city of Chichén-Itzá was abandoned by the Maya around AD 1200. The city was rediscovered by the Spanish in the 16th century, and has since been excavated and studied by archaeologists. Today, Chichén-Itzá is a popular tourist destination, and is one of the most visited archaeological sites in the world. The site is home to a number of impressive monuments and buildings, including the Temple of Kukulcan, the Great Ballcourt, and the Observatory. Visitors to the site can also see a number of well-preserved Maya artifacts, including sculptures, ceramics, and jewelry.