Architecture and Structures

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Here I present a detailed expansion of the architecture and structures of Chichen Itzá:

*Main Structures*

1. *The Castle (Pyramid of Kukulcán)*: Main temple dedicated to the snake god Kukulcán, 30 meters high and 91 steps.

2. *Temple of the Warriors*: Decorated with sculptures of warriors and snakes, it shows the Toltec influence.

3. *Temple of the Tables*: Structure with stone tables for rituals and sacrifices.

4. *The Ball Game*: Field for sacred Mayan ball game, 168 meters long.

5. *The Ossary*: Funeral temple for nobles and priests.

6. *The Snail*: Spiral-shaped astronomical observatory.

*Architecture*

1. *Architectural style*: Mixture of Mayan, Toltec and Puuc styles.

2. *Materials*: Limestone, stucco, wood and mortar.

3. *Construction techniques*: Construction of platforms, pyramids and temples.

4. *Decoration*: Sculptures, friezes, wall paintings and reliefs.

5. *Influences*: Classical Mayan, Toltec and Mexica architecture.

*Secondary Structures*

1. *Temple of Xtoloc*: Temple dedicated to the god Xtoloc, associated with rain.

2. *Temple of the Jaguars*: Temple with jaguar sculptures, symbol of power.

3. *Sacred Cenote*: Ceremonial well for human sacrifices.

4. *Casa Colorada*: Residential structure for priests and nobles.

5. *Groups of the Nuns*: Set of administrative buildings.

*Astronomical Characteristics*

1. *Solar alignment*: The Castle aligns with the sun during the equinoxes (March 21 and September 21).

2. *Observatory*: The Snail allowed to observe the celestial movements.

3. *Mayan calendar*: Representations of the Mayan calendar in the structures.

4. *Star alignment*: Some structures align with stars and constellations.

*Symbolism*

1. *Feathered Snake*: Representation of the god Kukulcán.

2. *Eagles and jaguars*: Symbols of power and strength.

3. *Circles and spirals*: Representations of time and the universe.

4. *Images of gods*: Representations of Mayan gods such as Chaac and Ah Puch.

*Restoration and Conservation*

1. *Restoration projects*: Started in 1920 by Manuel Gamio.

2. *Conservation*: Measures to protect the site from damage and looting.

3. *UNESCO*: Declared a World Heritage Site in 1985.

4. *National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH)*: In charge of conservation and protection.

*Constructive Chronology*

1. *VI century A.D. *: Initial construction.

2. *9th century A.D. *: Toltec influence.

3. *Twelfth century A.D. *: Apogee.

4. *XV century A.D. *: Abandonment.

5. *19th century A.D. *: Rediscovery.

*Sources*

1. "Chichén Itza" of UNESCO

2. "History of Chichen Itzá" by INAH

3. "Chichén Itzá: Official Guide" of the Ministry of Tourism of Mexico

4. "The Maya Book of Life" by John Lloyd Stephens

5. "Chichén Itzá: A Mayan City" by Manuel Gamio

6. "Mayan architecture" by Michael D. Coe

7. "Los Mayas" by Diego de Landa.

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