El Castillo Virtual Cache
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(virtual)
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Located in Chichen-Itza, A mix of jungle and open space. the climb is no longer allowed. Bring bug spray, sun block and plenty of water :-)
The beautiful 23m (75 ft.) El Castillo pyramid (also called the Pyramid of Kukulkán) will be straight ahead across a large open area. It was built with the Maya calendar in mind. There are 364 stairs plus a platform to equal 365 (days of the year), 52 panels on each side (which represent the 52-year cycle of the Maya calendar), and nine terraces on each side of the stairways (for a total of 18 terraces, which represents the 18-month Maya solar calendar). If this isn't proof enough of the mathematical precision of this temple, come for the spring or fall equinox (Mar 21 or Sept 21, between 3 and 5pm). On those days, sunlight touches the seven stairs of the northern stairway and the serpent-head carving at the base, which become a "serpent" formed by the play of light and shadow. This serpent appears to descend into the earth as the sun hits each stair from the top, ending with the serpent head. **The following is no longer accessible** El Castillo was built over an earlier structure. A narrow stairway at the western edge of the north staircase leads inside that structure, where there is a sacrificial altar-throne--a red jaguar encrusted with jade. The stairway is open from 11am to 3pm and is cramped, usually crowded, humid, and uncomfortable. A visit early in the day is best. Photos of the jaguar figure are not allowed. This is one of the most historic structures in the world and ranks along with the pyramids in Egypt. Its a tough climb but all worth it. To answer you must complete 1 of the following 2 tasks. 1: take a picture of yourself and the structure. 2: clap in front of the south staircase on the pyramid and explain what you experience. It's unfortunate the climb is no longer allowed nor the interior chambers. Be safe and drink plenty of water!
Additional Hints
(Decrypt)
Gurer vf abg zhpu gb fnl ohg vs lbh arrq uryc...
1: Cubgb bs lbh naq clenzvq.
2: Gur clenzvq rpub rssrpg.