Uxmal Mexico Travel Guide


Uxmal Mexico Travel Guides
A Vagabond Life

Uxmal Mexico Travel Guide A Vagabond Life

The Uxmal Mexico Travel Guide takes you to the wonderful Mayan city in the Yucatan.  Uxmal (pronounced OOSH -Mal) is an UNESCO listed ancient Mayan site that boomed between the 6th and 10th centuries AD. The city has been extensively restored and is known as the best preserved Mayan City exhibiting the most outstanding examples of Terminal Classic architecture anywhere.

First settled somewhere around the 6th century AD Uxmal became the capital city of smaller surrounding cities in the Puuc region in the latte 8th century. When many other Mayan cities collapsed in the 9th Century Uxmal embarked on a new building program and grew to become the largest site in Puuc. The twelve century saw the beginning of the decline of Uxmal which is believed to be caused by drought.  In the 13th and 14th centuries city became part of an alliance of Yucatan city-states led by Mayapan. 

Uxmal fell into further decline, however was still inhabited until the 1550’s and the Spanish Conquest when it was abandoned and reclaimed by the jungle.

Uxmal was ‘re-discovered’ in 1838 and restoration work began in 1938 and continues to this day,

Uxmal is about an hours drive from Merida. To beat the crowds get there early.

Uxmal Travel Guide

Uxmal Mexico Travel Guide  Placeholder
Uxmal Mexico Travel Guide

Buildings of Uxmal - Uxmal Mexico Travel Guide

Pyramid of the Magician

Uxmal Pyramid of the Magician

Pyramid of the Magician

The Pyramid of the Magician in Uxmal stands as a striking symbol of ancient Mayan ingenuity and spirituality. Its distinctive elliptical shape and steep incline evoke a sense of wonder, while intricate carvings adorn its façade, showcasing the artistic sophistication of Mayan craftsmanship. According to legend, the pyramid’s construction was attributed to a dwarf born of a virgin in a single night, adding to its mythical allure. Surrounded by lush jungle, the pyramid offers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Mayan civilization, inviting visitors to marvel at its grandeur and explore the mysteries of Uxmal’s ancient past.

Nunnery Quadrangle

Uxmal Nunnery Quadrangle
Uxmal Nunnery Quadrangle

The Nunnery Quadrangle, or the Cuadrángulo de las Monjas, in Uxmal is a remarkable architectural complex showcasing the Mayan civilization’s advanced engineering and artistic prowess. Comprising four grand buildings arranged around a central courtyard, the quadrangle is a prime example of Puuc-style architecture, characterized by intricate stone mosaics, geometric patterns, and decorative friezes depicting Mayan deities and mythological creatures. Despite its name, the structure likely served as a palace or administrative center rather than a convent. Its imposing scale and intricate detailing offer insight into the political and religious significance of Uxmal during the height of the Mayan civilization, captivating visitors with its historical and cultural significance.

Ball Court

Uxmal ball court
Uxmal Ball Court
Ball Court

The Ball Court in Uxmal is an imposing structure that highlights the significance of the Mesoamerican ballgame in Mayan society. This ancient sporting arena, marked by its elongated shape and sloping walls, served as a venue for ritualistic ballgames, symbolic of cosmic battles and religious ceremonies. The court’s acoustics and architectural features suggest it was designed for ceremonial purposes, with spectators and participants gathering to witness the sacred contests. As one of the largest ball courts in Mesoamerica, its grandeur and historical importance offer a window into the cultural and spiritual practices of the ancient Mayan civilization, captivating visitors with its architectural magnificence and cultural significance.

Grand Temple

Uxmal Grand Temple
Uxmal Grand Temple

The Grand Pyramid, also known as the Great Pyramid, at Uxmal stands as a monumental testament to the architectural genius and astronomical precision of the Maya civilization. Though not as famous as the Pyramid of the Magician, this structure is significant for its massive size and the role it played in ceremonies and daily life. The Grand Pyramid’s tiers and terraces offer insights into the complex societal and religious structures that governed Mayan life. Visitors to Uxmal are drawn to this grandiose edifice, reflecting on the ingenuity of its builders and the enduring mystery of its incomplete top, which stirs the imagination about its original purpose and significance in the ancient city’s skyline.

House of Doves

Uxmal House of the Doves
Uxmal House of the Doves

The House of Doves, or the “Casa de las Palomas” in Uxmal, is an exquisite example of Puuc architecture, named for the unique, dove-tail shaped decorations that adorn its upper façade, reminiscent of a flock of doves perched along the roofline. This elegant structure captivates visitors with its intricate lattice work and geometric patterns, showcasing the artistic sophistication and architectural innovation of the Maya civilization. Thought to have served a ceremonial or residential purpose, the House of Doves stands as a testament to the peaceful coexistence of human ingenuity with the natural world, embodying the serene and mystical atmosphere that envelops the ancient ruins of Uxmal.

Casas de las Tortugas

Uxmal Casas de las Tortugas
Casas de las Tortugas – House of Tortoises

The Quadrangle of the Turtles, or “Cuadrángulo de las Tortugas,” in Uxmal is a smaller but no less significant architectural marvel within this ancient Mayan city. Named for the delicately carved turtle motifs that adorn its upper friezes, this quadrangle reflects the Mayans’ deep reverence for nature and their belief in the turtle as a symbol of rain and fertility. Situated near the Nunnery Quadrangle, this serene courtyard is enclosed by buildings that exhibit classic Puuc style architecture, with intricate stone mosaics and precise geometric designs. The presence of turtles, creatures known for their longevity and stability, highlights the Mayans’ sophisticated understanding of the natural world and their desire to harmonize with it, making the Quadrangle of the Turtles a poignant reminder of the civilization’s rich cultural and spiritual life.

Governors palace

Uxmal Governers House
Uxmal Governors Palace

The Governor’s Palace in Uxmal stands as a majestic testament to the grandeur and sophistication of ancient Mayan architecture. This expansive complex, believed to have served as the residence of Uxmal’s ruling elite, showcases intricate stone carvings, ornate facades, and spacious courtyards. Its impressive size and strategic location within the city suggest it played a pivotal role in governance, ceremonies, and societal functions. Visitors are captivated by the palace’s intricate details, including depictions of Mayan gods, rulers, and mythological scenes, offering a glimpse into the cultural and political significance of Uxmal during its zenith as a thriving urban center in the Maya world.

Throne of the Jaguar

Uxmal Throne of the Jaguar
Throne of the Jaguar

The Throne of the Jaguar, or “Trono del Jaguar,” in Uxmal is a remarkable architectural masterpiece that symbolizes the power and authority of ancient Mayan rulers. Carved from limestone, this throne features intricate reliefs depicting a jaguar, a revered symbol of strength and royalty in Mayan culture, along with other mythological motifs. Positioned atop a platform within the Governor’s Palace, the Throne of the Jaguar is believed to have served as a ceremonial seat for rulers during important rituals and gatherings. Its exquisite craftsmanship and symbolic significance offer a fascinating glimpse into the religious and political ideologies of the ancient Maya civilization, captivating visitors with its timeless allure.

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