Exploring the Mayan Pyramids: Uxmal

We continued our exploration of the Mayan past at Uxmal.  Uxmal, initially settled around 500 BC, became known as one of the most important cultural and commercial centers during the Mayan Classic period. 

One of the characteristics that distinguish Uxmal from other sites we had visited so far was how the population addressed the need for water.  Throughout the Yucatan, one finds that fresh water is abundant in underground rivers and cenotes, but above ground fresh water sources are scarce.  Uxmal lies in an area where the land is more fertile and therefore suitable for cultivation, but there are no permanent freshwater resources nearby.  Therefore the Maya developed a set of cisterns and other water collection mechanisms through which they would capture rainwater for use throughout the year.

Other characteristics that distinguish Uxmal are the extensive examples of decorative art relief carvings throughout the large site, typical of the Puuc style.  We became quite familiar with the image of Chaac, the rain god, which we saw for the first time in Mayapan, and could not escape in Uxmal.  This, of course, was quite understandable, given the heavy reliance on rain for sustenance of the population.

Climbing the Great Pyramid at Uxmal, exploring the governor’s palace, wandering through the ball court, and standing in the middle of the nunnery quadrangle Uxmal were breathtaking experiences to say the least.  And to top it off, standing at the base of the pyramid of the Magician and looking upward, while imagining what events may have played themselves out here over 1000 years ago, was quite awe inspiring!