Plataforma de Venus
Chichén-Itzá, Mexico, 97751
The Plataforma de Venus, within the Chichen Itza archaeological site in Mexico, is a platform adorned with intricate carvings of Venus—the planet associated with warfare and sacrifice in Mesoamerican culture. Admire its detailed artwork and learn about its role in ancient rituals. The platform provides insight into the Maya people’s astronomical knowledge and religious practices, making it a must-see for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
The basics
Join a guided tour of Chichen Itza that highlights the significance of the Plataforma de Venus in Maya astronomy and religion. You can explore the site on your own, but tours provide a fuller understanding of the structure and in-depth explanations of the carvings. Plataforma de Venus is just one of the many landmarks at Chichen Itza, such as El Castillo and the Temple of the Warriors.
Things to know before you go
Chichen Itza is mostly wheelchair accessible, with added ramps in some areas.
Well-preserved serpent heads extend from the staircases leading up to the platform.
You can no longer climb any of the temples or structures on the site.
How to get there
West of Cancun, Chichen Itza is accessible by car and bus. Most guided tours from Cancun, Playa del Carmen, and Tulum include round-trip transportation, making for a more convenient experience. It takes about 2–2.5 hours from Cancun or Playa del Carmen by car via Highway 180. Once at Chichen Itza, the Plataforma de Venus is a short walk from the main pyramid, El Castillo.
When to get there
Plan to arrive at Chichen Itza early, especially during peak tourist months (December through March), to avoid the crowds and heat. Also, choose a weekday if you can, when there are fewer visitors. In terms of weather, the best time to visit the site is during the dry season, from November to April.
El Castillo
The centerpiece of the Chichen Itza archaeological site, El Castillo (or the Temple of Kukulcán) is a step pyramid that’s famous for a phenomenon that occurs twice a year on the spring and fall equinoxes. As the sun sets, a shadow appears in the shape of a snake on the stairway of the pyramid, which the ancient Mayans considered a manifestation of the god Kukulcán, the feathered serpent. During this time, expect to encounter large crowds.
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