Chacchoben,Maya City and Archaeological Site, Mexico

Mexico

Chacchoben

Summary

Chacchoben is a Maya archaeological site in southern Quintana Roo, Mexico, known for its monumental pyramids and ceremonial significance. Settled as early as 200 BCE and flourishing around 700 CE, it became an important religious center characterized by large temples, plazas, and platform groups, though its original name is unknown. Abandoned around 900–950 CE, the site was gradually reclaimed by the jungle until rediscovered in the mid-20th century and officially reported in 1972. Excavations and restorations by Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History began in the 1990s, and today visitors can explore three restored pyramids, staircases, and plazas, some still bearing traces of red paint. Surrounded by rich jungle wildlife, Chacchoben—meaning “Place of the Red Corn”—offers a glimpse into Classic Maya architecture and spirituality, while much of the city remains buried beneath vegetation, hinting at its once considerable scale.

Chacchoben is located just south of the Riviera Maya, and within an hour’s drive from Costa Maya. Its name means "The Place of Red Corn," which is derived from a nearby village, its original name is not known.

Evidence suggests that Chacchoben was a settlement as far back as 1000 BC although it is believed that the site was abandoned and reoccupied a number of times and it is known that most of the structures at the site were modified or restored a number of times most notably from 300 – 360 AD although the buildings in the main groups which can be seen today date from 700 AD.

Following the collapse of the Maya civilization, Chacchoben, like many other sites in the region, was still used as a ceremonial centre and Archaeological evidence suggests that a number of rituals took place at the abandoned temples.

During the Caste War of Yucatán (1847–1901) the site was abandoned when many of the Maya moved away due to the conflict and the atrocities that were being committed, it was then that Chacchoben was claimed by the jungle.

It was to remain lost until 1942 when the land around it became the home of a local farmer and the ruins were once again discovered. Exploration of the site started in 1972 when the site was mapped and registered with the Mexican government.

Restoration of Chacchoben was started in 1994 under the National Institute of Anthropology and History and the site was opened to the public in October 2002.

The first main structure on entry to the site is Temple 24 found in Plaza B, this structure is impressive with its multi-levels and stairway on each side. From there it is a short walk past the Gran Plaza to the most impressive and tallest temple known as Temple 1 which is located in the Gran Basamento. This is accessed via a small plaza which contains a broken stele and a staircase leading up from it. At the top of the stairs is another pyramid temple across from which is Temple 1.

A short walk from there is the Plaza Las Vias with its residential and administrative low-rise buildings.

Scattered across the site are the remains of buildings still to be excavated and are noticeable as tree-covered mounds.

Although the surrounding area has been cleared for farming Chacchoben itself has retained many of its trees including large mahogany trees and cohune palms, strangler figs, and banyan trees which are scattered across the site providing it with a relaxing atmosphere.

To see more photographs and take a virtual tour of the site click on the photoshow below.