Watch Global Treasures Uxmal Mexico

Uxmal Surrounded by Nature and located 80 km west of the Mexican city of Merida is one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Yucatan: Uxmal.Legend has it that the 38m. high Wizard Pyramid was given its name because it was believed that it had, in just one night, been built by a wizard. Uxmal is believed to be a classic example of Puuc architecture and is therefore an historic relic of ancient Mayan culture. Little is known about the exact history of this city but it is thought that it flourished mainly between the 8th and 11th century. According to archaeologists, Uxmal's most important buildings were built during this period. Adjacent to the Wizard Pyramid is the Nuns' Quadrangle, a rectangular building that was given its name by the Spanish. This building, with its large inner courtyard and tiny doorways, was mistakenly thought by the Spanish to have been modeled on a European convent. It was actually built during several different epochs. The magnificent and elegant Governors' Palace is decorated with an immense variety of stone mosaics and masks of the rain god, Chac, and architecturally is among the most beautiful of Mayan structures. The old Mayan buildings merge harmoniously with the beautiful Mexican landscape and create an unforgettable impression of this unique cultural period of Latin America's history.