Dzibilchaltun Mayan Ruins and the Temple
of the Seven Dolls Yucatan, Mexico

Dzibilchaltun, pronounced (see-bee-ell-chahlt-toon,) is a Maya archaeological site in the Mexican state of Yucatan, approximately 10 miles north of the state capital Merida. Its name literally means “Place where there is writing on the stones.” 

In November, 2008, our family decided to take another cruise to Mexico. I still maintain that this is one of the most carefree and relaxing ways to travel as everyone has an opportunity to do what interests them, there is an abundant variety of food, dining is as informal or as formal as one desires and the customer service and attention to detail is unrivaled by any of the finest hotel chains we've ever stayed at.

The decision to visit one of the Mayan ruins was primarily made because of my intense interest in ancient civilizations. I have always wanted to see the Egyptian Pyramids and someday I fully expect I will. The Dzilbilchaltun site dates back to approximately 500 B.C. and was inhabited until the arrival of the Spaniards in the 16th Century. One of the most famous structures on the site is the “Temple of the Seven Dolls,” named because of seven small figurines found when the temple was first discovered in the 1950’s. This temple is significant because it is the only Mayan Temple with windows and a tower, rather than a roof comb. The Mayans were known for making important advances in scientific knowledge such as astronomy and technology. What is so spectacular about the Temple of the Seven Dolls is that it was specifically built so that at sunrise on the Spring and Fall Equinoxes, the sun shines directly through one window of the temple and out the other. It is thought that the Mayans did this to honor the “Sun god.”

There are several popular Mayan sites to explore, but we found Dzilbilchaltun to be closer to the Port of Progreso and less populated with tourists. The site itself is so large, approximately 10 square miles with  hundreds of structures, that it was easy to just wander off alone to find a quiet place to reflect and imagine what daily life might have been like in this ancient city. I found myself in such a serene and relaxed state, it was difficult to leave. It seemed almost as if I could feel the spirits of those who had walked these grounds, lived and died there. The area was so beautiful, quiet and peaceful.

It is also one of the few Mayan ruin sites that still allows tourists to climb on the structures which was extremely exhilarating and especially satisfying for me. Despite my knee problems, I just felt so excited that it was easy to “push,” myself to get to the top of the large palace with three chambers thought to serve as a burial site for the elite members of the culture. The palace itself is one of the longest in the Mayan area with 35 separate entrances. Other structures of particular interest include the pyramid on site and the ruins of the colonial open chapel. Although the Temple of the Seven Dolls is a bit of a walk, approximately half a mile, it was well worth it to climb the structure and explore the interior.

Be prepared if you embark on this tour or any other of the Mayan ruins. Wear comfortable walking shoes, wear sunscreen, comfortable clothing and a hat and sunglasses if you are particularly sensitive to the sun. These are wide open areas that cover several square miles and necessitate walking some distance. I highly recommend this area as a Stress Dynamics Serenity Spot. My family and I found it very spiritual and I believe that you will too.