Chichén Itzá
Title
Chichén Itzá
Publisher
Lawrence Technological University
Date Created
January 18, 2018
Alternative Title or Name
El Castillo
Temple of Kukulkan
Creator2
Aluzzo, Adrienne (photographer)
Work Type
Single Built Works
Date
c. 1000
Work Location
Mexico (nation)
Chichén Itzá (deserted settlement)
Style/Period
Late Classic
Subject
stepped pyramids
Description
Side view of the steps going up El Castillo at Chichen Itza in Mexico. "Like other Mayan pyramids, the El Castillo has 9 levels which represent the 9 levels of the afterlife, and 365 stairs which represent the days of the year. The stairs climb at a perfect slant, 45 degree angle. The upward progression of the pyramid tiers evidently was carefully planned out ... This dichotomy of positive and negative space engages the ground line in a way similar to a tree. The edifice seems to continue with the same pattern down into the ground for an unknown distance. The focal point at the top is a starting point for the design force, and the expansive force downward becomes an intricate latticework. This is more thoughtfully designed than the typical Egyptian pyramid. It is a more gradated engagement of space and interaction with the unseen world,"--El Castillo Pyramid, Chichen Itza, by Benjamin Blankenbehler, January 22, 2016 from Architecture Revived website.
Material/Medium
limestone
Measurements
79 feet tall, 152 feet at base
Reproduction Type
jpeg
Copyright Statement
©2013 Lawrence Technological University. These images may be used for personal or educational purposes. They are not available for commercial purposes without the explicit permission of LTU.
ID Number
2017MX-036
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