Although this site dates back to the Superior Preclassic Era around 500 b.C., the vast majority of construction was carried out during the Late Classic Period (600-1000 a.C.) and into the end of the Classic Period (1000-1150 a.D).
The name “Uxmal” means: “That which was built three times” or “Place of abundant harvest” and is located 78 km from the city of Merida along the highway to Campeche (Federal highway number 261). This archaeological zone is surrounded by an ancient hills range, creating a magnificent frame for these series of settlements. The picturesque quality of these sites is accented by the geometric proportions of the buildings and their facades, which are beautifully decorated with stone filigree. The aesthetic appeal of these characteristics is undeniable; the intricate stonework is truly incredible. The mayas channeled their social energy into construction, creating fabulous buildings. The architecture in this region is distinct from other sites in Yucatan and is know as the Puuc style.
Uxmal is the site of one of the constructions most representative of this style: “The Governor’s House”, considered by experts as a wonder of the ancient world for its precision and architectonic beauty. However, admiration and wonder will be felt from the time the visitor enters the site, as he views the “The Soothsayer’s Pyramid” with its imposing 35 meter height holding in its elliptical form a large number of enigmas still to be discovered. Recent excavations define this as a ritual center and residence of Chaac, the last governor of Uxmal. This sight of this majestic structure invites the visitor to discover all the revelations of the different constructions of this amazing civilization.
The fertility of the soil and the great potential of the region were only two of the factors that led to the high level of development achieved here. There is also evidence of a great hydraulic engineering system used to collect rain water in “chultunes” or cisterns wich hel from 20 to 35 thousand liters of water each. Over 160 of these cisterns have been located in the nucleus alone of Uxmal.
Political and economic control was held by a select group of individuals who through religious rituals served as intermediaries between man and the gods. The governing class monopolized the most important activities, of all kinds, carried out by the people of Uxmal. Little by little the “Three times built” was transformed into one of the most important regional capitals of the northern mayas, until a political power was established giving them control over lesser cities, and establishing Uxmal as the capital of the Puuc Region.
For these and many other reasons, Uxmal was declared Patrimony Humanity. If is fortunate that today we are able to explore this incredible chapter in human history; the distinctive maya culture, and embark on a journey that crosses cultures and transcends time. Uxmal serves as the gateway to one of the most interesting and relevant routes in the history of Yucatan: The Puuc route.
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Merida