Uxmal Archaeological Zone

"Uxmal is one of the two greatest Mayan city ruins in the state. Located between one hour and one hour and a half from Merida, there are many who prefer visiting this wonderful city over making a longer trip to Chichen Itza. The archaeological site is located at the center of the Puuc region (mayan for "hill" or "chain of low mountains"). Uxmal and the other sites in the region are the pinnacles of late Maya art and architecture in their design, layout, and ornamentation, with the adequately named Puuc style describing those characteristics. Because of its importance, it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Uxmal was founded c. A.D. 700 and had some 25,000 inhabitants. Toward the 10th century A.D., it was mainly abandoned by its inhabitants. Some of the most important buildings they left behind are the Pyramid of the Soothsayer, the Quadrangle of the Nuns, the Governor's Palace, and the House of the Tortoises. You can get an impressive elevated view of the city from these last two. The price for visiting is 240 pesos for Mexican nationals and 531 pesos for people of other nationalities. You can hire a guide at the entrance. You will need at least 2 hours to visit the whole complex or see most of it. I'll recommend visiting in the morning to avoid the heat of later hours. I cannot recommend Uxmal enough if you are looking for a calm visit while enjoying your surroundings, ruins, and nature. "