The reason for the travel was the solar eclipse – which, even if it’s not total, but annular, is a spectacular event. And ability to witness it in a really special place is something not to be missed. So the choice was clear – Uxmal in Yucatan.
Uxmal is an ancient Maya city of the classical period and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites of Maya culture. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with the nearby ruins of Kabah, Sayil and Labna. Its buildings are typical of the Puuc style, with smooth low walls that open on ornate friezes based on representations of typical Maya huts. These are represented by columns and trapezoidal shapes.
Entwined snakes and, in many cases two-headed snakes are used for masks of the rain god, Chaac; its big noses represent the rays of the storms. Feathered serpents with open fangs are shown leaving from the same human beings. Also seen in some cities are the influences of the Nahua peoples, who followed the cult of Quetzalcoatl and Tlaloc. These were integrated with the original elements of the Puuc tradition.