Ek Balam Mayan Ruin Videos:
Exploring the Ek’ Balam Ruins
Are the Ek Balam worth visiting?
Though certainly less glamorous than their more famous neighbor, Chichen Itza, the ruins of Ek Balam are home to 45 structures including the city’s defensive walls, oval palace, and Acropolis which contains the tomb of Ukit Kan Le’k Tok’, a former ruler of Ek Balam.
Jaguars are a running theme in Mayan architecture and Ek Balam is no exception. The name of the former city means Black Jaguar in the Yicatec Maya language. The doorway into the temple which houses the tomb of Ukit Kan Le’k Tok’ is shaped like the mouth of a jaguar.
There is a nearby cenote which deserves a visit, especially on what will no doubt be a hot day in Ek Balam.
Getting to the Ek Balam Ruins
The Ek Balam ruins are closest to Chichen Itza; only 35 miles northeast of the popular site. You can visit both in one day and many tour companies offer package deals to see Ek Balam in addition to Chichen Itza.
Ek Balam can be reached from neighboring Valladolid, Mexico; a town of 50,000 people known for its cathedral and beautiful cenotes. The drive takes 30 minutes and is included in the price of tours to the ruins. If you are traveling from Cancun, the journey will take slightly longer than two hours.
Ruins At Ek Balam Overview:
Ek Balam is a Mayan archaeological site located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico, near the town of Valladolid. The name Ek Balam means “black jaguar” in Mayan language. The ruins are known for their intricate carvings and sculptures, and they offer a glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization.
The Ek Balam ruins were occupied by the Mayan people from about 100 BC until the Spanish arrived in the 16th century. The site was rediscovered in the early 20th century, but it wasn’t until the 1990s that serious excavation and restoration work began.
The site covers an area of about 1.5 square kilometers and contains several large buildings, including the Acropolis, the Oval Palace, and the Ballcourt. The Acropolis is the tallest structure at the site, standing at over 30 meters high. Visitors can climb to the top of the Acropolis for stunning views of the surrounding jungle.
One of the unique features of Ek Balam is the well-preserved stucco sculptures that adorn many of the structures. These sculptures depict animals, birds, and mythical creatures, and they are some of the finest examples of Mayan art and architecture.
Another notable feature of Ek Balam is the Cenote X’Canché, a natural sinkhole that was used by the Mayans for ceremonial purposes. The Cenote is located a short distance from the ruins and can be visited by tourists.
Visitors to the Ek Balam ruins can hire a guide to learn more about the history and culture of the Mayan people. The site is open to the public every day from 8 am to 5 pm, and admission fees are reasonable.
In conclusion, the Ek Balam ruins offer a fascinating glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization. The site’s intricate carvings, well-preserved sculptures, and stunning natural surroundings make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Yucatan Peninsula.
