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The most spectacular visual phenomenon created by the Mayas, a playful
cambination of lights and shadows which recreate the image of a snake on the
steps of Kukulkán Pyramid, takes place in Chichén Itzá during the spring
equinox.
In the archaeological zone of Chichén Itzá, in the state of Yucatán, the
day of the spring equinox (which generally takes place on the 21st
of March) gives the visitors the possibility to witness this incredible
phenomenon; a brilliant example of the great cultural advance and astronomical
knowledge that the ancient Mayas possessed.
The phenomenon occurs at the foot of the Kukulkán Pyramid, also known as
"El Castillo" ("The Castle"). As the day goes on, a combination of lights and
shadows recreates the body of a serpent; the image of Kukulkán, an ancient
deity which used to represent power and wisdom in the Mayan world. The image consists of seven inverted
triangles of light that created by the shadow which the nine platforms of the
edifice project against the of its northern flight of steps.
The show comes to its end when the shadows and lights that portray the
body of Kukulkán reach the head of a snake located in the lower part of the
rail. In that very moment the spectators stand up and raise their hands towards
the sky in order to absorb the positive energy which is believed to emanate
from this event.
