- Uxmal
Uxmal (oosh-MAHL) is a Mayan word which means "Thrice built", referring to the number of times this ceremonial center was rebuilt. Like Templo Mayor, many structures were superimposed over existing buildings.
This pyramid is named "The House of the Magician". Actually, it is not really a true pyramid, as it rises from an elliptical base.
The rear stairway of the House of the Magician is very steep, as seen here. The front side has a stairway even steeper at 60°. The original temple was built over another four times, making it 5 temples in one.
A double-headed Jaguar in front of the Governor's Palace. The Jaguar, as well as the frog and snake, was considered a sacred animal.
One of the many Iguanas roaming around the site.
The Nunnery Quadrangle as seen from the House of the Magician. This name had nothing to do with the Mayan use of the building. When the Spaniards discovered it, it reminded them of the nunneries in Spain.
The House of the Magician overlooking the inner wall of the Nunnery Quadrangle. From here you can appreciate the steepness of the front stairs of the House of the Magician.
From upper left to right: The Governor's Palace, the House of the Turtles, The Great Pyramid, with the wall of the Nunnery Quadrangle in front. Those things sticking out of the wall above the doors are carvings of their god (or one of their gods).