Chichén Itzá · The Well Beside the Pyramid

At sunset on the equinoxes, the Kukulcán pyramid at Chichén Itzá throws a chain of triangles of shadow onto its north staircase, like a serpent slowly descending — the result of Maya calendrics matched to architecture.

Beside the pyramid is a natural limestone sinkhole, deep with water. The Maya threw jade, gold and people into it, and dredging in the early twentieth century brought up a great many offerings and human bones.

Climbing the pyramid is not allowed. Guides will tell you: the serpent comes down only twice a year.

Historical Mysteries / Yucatán · Mexico / 600