The Temple of Kukulcan at Chichen Itza

The Temple of Kukulcan at Chichen Itza (also known as El Castillo) is 30 metres (98 ft) high with sides 55.3 metres (181 ft) wide. The steps are at a 45 degree angle and very narrow. A rope decends from the top down the northeast stairs to help visitors climb to the top but, even so, it is no easy feat (especially if one has a fear of heights). At the top of the step-pyramid is the Temple of Kukulcan (6 metres/20 ft tall)and interior chambers have been found beneath. The base of the balustrades of the northeast facing stairs are adorned with the stone heads of serpents. At the spring and autumn equinoxes the sun casts a shadow which resembles a serpent gliding down these stairs to meet up with the stone heads at the base. This event is regarded as the return of the plumed serpent god Kukulcan to earth to bless the people. Twice each year many people from all over the world gather at Chichen Itza to experience Kukulcan's return.