Uxmal

Uxmal is a Maya archaeological site in the Puuc hills near Santa Elena in the state of Yucatan, Mexico, about 80 kilometres south of Merida. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is regarded as one of the finest examples of Puuc architecture, characterised by smooth lower walls topped with intricate mosaic stonework. The most prominent building is the Pyramid of the Magician, an unusual oval-based temple rising about 35 metres, with rounded corners and steep stairs. Nearby, the Nunnery Quadrangle surrounds a courtyard with long buildings covered in carvings of serpents, masks of the rain god Chaac and lattice patterns. Other highlights include the House of the Governor, a long facade renowned for its precise decoration, the Great Pyramid, the Ball Court and the House of the Turtles. Climbing is limited on most buildings, but visitors can walk through the quadrangles and view the structures from close range. A typical visit takes two to three hours, and the site opens at 8:00 AM daily. Arriving at opening provides cooler temperatures and softer light for photography, as midday heat is strong and shade is limited. A light and sound show is held in the evening at the site, with separate admission. Crowds are modest compared with Chichen Itza, although tour buses from Merida arrive late morning. Admission is charged in pesos with a separate fee for the night show, and a visitor centre has a museum, restaurants and shops. Visitors should bring water, a hat and insect repellent. Uxmal is often combined with the Ruta Puuc, which includes smaller sites such as Kabah, Sayil, Xlapak and Labna, or with a stay in nearby hotels so that the ruins can be seen early. The nearby town of Santa Elena and the surrounding haciendas offer lunch options and accommodation, and organised day trips from Merida usually include a stop at one or two smaller Puuc sites on the return journey.