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The Ruins at El TajínThis is one of the most significant ruins sites in all of Mexico today. It's a large site with several pyramids and lots of other structures still to be excavated. El Tajín was probably constructed by the Totonac Indians who still live in the area today. Probably the most famous aspect of these ruins is this fact, since the Totonacs will perform their ritualistic acrobats at the site, just as they must have done when El Tajín was at its height. The cander-acrobats are called voladores, and the rituals they perform date back to the Pre-Columbian era. A drum and flute set the scene for the balancing feats performed atop a tall pole. El Tajín is accessed from the nearest town called Papantla in the hills, and 140 miles north of Veracruz. A taxi is about $25 but the bus is a bargain at about $1. They run every 15 minutes, with the first bus going out at 7am. The Structures at El TajínThe ruins at El Tajín lie amongst low hills covered in lush tropical forest greenery. This makes for picturesque views, which you can get plenty of if you climb the man-made terrace near the back of the site area. Since it's not allowed to climb on the pyramids, and you might be tempted to do so to get a better view, the terrace is your best bet for good views. The terrace supports the Tajin Chico (newer part of the site) buildings. There are about 150 building in all at El Tajín, of which around two dozen have been excavated. Don't miss the Pyramid of the Niches, made of stone and adobe and, you guessed it, niches. The niches, or hollowed-out areas, were painted a contrasting color for maximum visual effect. Temple of the Columns is wonderful for its heiroglyphs and carvings of priests and warriors. There's also a Museum with gift shop and snack bar. |
•Mexico Ancient Ruins &Culture |
