The Pyramid of Kukulk�n
Towering above the other buildings at 79 feet (24 m) high, the Pyramid of Kukulk�n has a structured feel about it. Two of its sides have been completely restored, the other two were left to show the condition before work commenced. Each side had originally 91 steps, adding the platform at the top as a final step there are 365 in total one for every day of the year. Further evidence that this building was linked to the Mayan interests of astronomy and the calendar is demonstrated at the spring and autumn equinox. On these days the shadow of the sun playing on the stairs causes the illusion of a snake processing down the pyramid in the direction of the cenote. Naturally, it�s an impressive sight, and there are usually thousands of people on the site at these times.
At the spring and autumn equinoxes, the sun's shadow creates the illusion of a snake moving down the pyramid
It�s quite a climb to the top, but once you�re there you�ll have a terrific view of the rest of the ruins. The temple at the top of the pyramid has carvings of Chac, the rain god, and Quetzalc�atl, the serpent god. As at Uxmal, this temple was built over the top of an original structure and at limited times of the day (check at the entrance) you can enter the old temple via a passage under the northern stairway. Inside you�ll see a sculpture of a jaguar, painted red and with jade eyes, exactly as it was discovered.