Ek balam

Location:

Ek Balam is a Mayan archaeological site located in the state of Yucatán, Mexico, near the city of Valladolid.

Description of the Place:

It is known for its impressive architecture and well-preserved Mayan structures, including the acropolis, pyramids, palaces, and a ball court. The site is surrounded by jungle, which makes it even more impressive.

History:

It was a Mayan city that reached its peak between the 7th and 10th centuries AD. It was an important political and religious center, and its name means “black jaguar” in Yucatec Maya.

Visiting Hours:

The archaeological site is open every day of the week from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Significance:

Ek Balam was an important city in the ancient Mayan civilization, and its study has provided important insights into the history and culture of this period.

Entrance Fee:

The cost of entry to the Ek Balam archaeological site is approximately $80 Mexican pesos for adults.

Features of the Place:

The main structures of Ek Balam include the Acropolis, which is a stepped pyramid with well-preserved reliefs and stelae, and the Ek Balam Tower, a 30-meter-high pyramid that offers panoramic views of the surrounding jungle.

Climate and Altitude:

It is located at an altitude of approximately 20 meters above sea level, in a region with a warm and humid climate.

How to Get There From:

From the city of Valladolid, you can reach Ek Balam in approximately 30 minutes by car.

What to Do:

In addition to exploring the ruins, visitors can enjoy hikes through the jungle and visit the X’canche cenote, a nearby cenote that offers the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear waters.

What is Most Characteristic:

The most characteristic feature is its impressive archaeological structures, which demonstrate the advanced architectural and artistic knowledge of the Mayan civilization.

Where to Stay:

In the city of Valladolid, there are a variety of accommodation options, ranging from boutique hotels to more economical options. Visitors can find accommodation in hotels such as the Hotel Zentik Project, the Hotel Mesón del Marqués, and the Casa Tia Micha, among others.