About Chichen Itza: Chichen Itza was one of the largest and most important cities of the ancient Maya civilization, built in what is now Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. Its centerpiece, El Castillo, is a step pyramid built with such careful planning that it works like a giant calendar, with sunlight and shadow marking the changing seasons. The Chirping Echo — A clap at the base of El Castillo's stairs produces an echo that sounds like the chirp of a sacred quetzal bird.

Location: Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico In the heart of Mexico's Yucatan region. · Built: 5th to 10th century AD · Famous Structure: El Castillo (Pyramid of Kukulkan) · Purpose: Political & religious center · Builder: The Maya civilization · Astronomy: Equinox shadow-serpent · Unesco Status: World Heritage Site since 1988 · Materials: Limestone · Visitors: Over 2 million per year