Chichén Itzá — Unless it’s raining, the serpent of Kukulcan never misses his appointment. Sometimes, he’s a little early.
And like that famous movie star ready for her closeup, the serpent — actually an illusion caused by the sun’s angle — descended the northern staircase of El Castillo.
Thousands of tourists arrived from around the world to witness the autumnal equinox spectacle. The serpent may return today, when the equinox hits at 5:02 p.m.
Clouds appeared poised to prevent the effect, but the sun prevailed at 5:05 p.m., allowing the phenomenon to last for about 10 minutes.
At the foot of the temple, tourists raised their hands, performed rituals and sang chants to receive the arrival of autumn.
National and foreign tourists from countries such as Spain, Italy, Japan, the United States, Argentina and Colombia witnessed this event, which takes place twice a year at the site and at various Mayan archaeological sites.
According to data from the Patronage of Cultural and Tourist Services Units (Cultur), 7,999 visitors entered the archaeological zone on Thursday, which beats last year’s total of 5,894.
{ Previously: Spring equinox at Chichén Itzá }
Source: Reporteros Hoy
