Chichen Itza and beyond: Mayan ruins in Yucatan, Mexico

According to CNN, Mexico is the North American nation with the most UNESCO World Heritage sites, thanks in large part to its rich history and well-preserved archaeological sites — some of which are still being discovered and excavated to this day.

One of the most famous, and most popular, is Chichen Itza, which was a thriving city of the Mayans tracing its roots to the fifth century AD. In addition to being an important historical site, Chichen and its central pyramid are fantastically well-built and well-preserved.

While Chichen — as the locals call it — is absolutely still worth visiting, there are also a few other Mayan ruin sites in the area where you can get a more relaxed, personalized experience with bonus pyramid climbing. Here’s what to see when you travel here:

The Yucatan peninsula that curls into the ocean on Mexico’s eastern coast is comprised of three states–Campeche, Quintana Roo (where Cancun is) and Yucatan, the sites we’re talking about are all within Yucatan state.

Yucatecans are known for being so proud of their history and culture that other Mexicans occasionally tease them about being an independent country. One thing’s for sure–the phrase “embarrassment of riches” could have been coined about Yucatan’s wealth of archaeological ruins.

Click here for full article: edition.cnn.com

Source: edition.cnn.com