Chichen Itza Worksheet & Fun Facts for Kids
Learn all about one of the New Seven Wonders of the World with this free Chichen Itza worksheet.
With this free world geography worksheet, you will embark on a journey to explore the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza, located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico.
Through this worksheet, you will uncover intriguing facts about the history, architecture, and significance of Chichen Itza. From the magnificent El Castillo pyramid to the enigmatic observatory known as El Caracol, each structure holds clues to the Mayan civilization’s advanced knowledge and achievements.
Whether you are studying Mesoamerican cultures or simply captivated by ancient wonders. This Chichen Itza worksheet is an invaluable educational resource. It combines geography, history, and cultural exploration to ignite your curiosity and expand your knowledge of this remarkable archaeological site.
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Interesting Chichen Itza facts for kids
- Chichen Itza is an ancient city located in the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico. It was once a thriving Mayan civilization between the 9th and 12th centuries.
- The name “Chichen Itza” means “at the mouth of the well of Itza.” Itza refers to one of the Mayan tribes that inhabited the area.
- Chichen Itza is home to the famous pyramid called El Castillo or the Temple of Kukulcan. It is a 98-foot-tall step pyramid with 365 steps, representing the number of days in a year.
- Every year during the spring and autumn equinoxes (around March 20th and September 22nd), a fascinating phenomenon occurs at El Castillo. As the sun sets, a shadow creates an illusion of a serpent slithering down the steps of the pyramid. This is a tribute to the Mayan snake deity, Kukulcan.
- The Great Ball Court is another remarkable feature of Chichen Itza. It is the largest ball court in Mesoamerica, measuring 545 feet long and 225 feet wide. The ball game played there had religious and political significance to the Mayans.
- Chichen Itza has a cenote, which is a natural sinkhole formed by the collapse of limestone bedrock. The cenote at Chichen Itza is called the Sacred Cenote. It was a place of worship and also used for sacrificial offerings by the ancient Mayans.
- The Observatory, also known as El Caracol, is an impressive building that served as an astronomical observatory for the Mayans.
- Chichen Itza was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1988 and is one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
- The site is full of intricate carvings and sculptures that depict Mayan mythology and historical events. These include representations of jaguars, warriors, feathered serpents, and other deities.
Continue learning with our free continent of South America worksheets.
Chichen Itza research
Welcome to the fascinating world of Chichen Itza!
Get ready to embark on a colorful journey through time and uncover the secrets of Chichen Itza.
As you grab your coloring pencils, let’s dive into the history of Chichen Itza and discover the answers to some intriguing questions.
These are the questions the kids will need to answer on the Chichen Itza worksheet:
Where is Chichen Itza located?
Chichen Itza is located on the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.
When was Chichen Itza built?
Chichen Itza was built over a long period, starting around the 6th century AD and continuing to the 13th century AD.
Its most significant period of construction and development occurred between the 9th and 12th centuries AD.
What materials were used in making Chichen Itza?
The construction of Chichen Itza involved the use of various materials. The main building material was limestone, which was abundant in the region.
The Mayans quarried and cut the limestone blocks to create the impressive structures that still stand today. They also used timber, thatch, and stucco for roofs, decorative elements, and finishes.
Who built Chichen Itza?
Chichen Itza was built by multiple generations of Mayan people. It is believed that different ruling dynasties contributed to the construction and expansion of Chichen Itza over time. The site represents the achievements of various Mayan architects, engineers, and artisans.
Why was Chichen Itza built?
The exact reasons for the construction of Chichen Itza are not entirely known, but there are several theories. One theory suggests that it served as an important political and economic center, acting as a hub for trade and commerce in the region.
Chichen Itza also had religious significance, with temples dedicated to Mayan deities. It likely functioned as a ceremonial and pilgrimage site for the Mayan people.
Books about Chichen Itza
Learn even more about Chichen Itza with these kids books:
Where Is Chichen Itza? is an illustrated book that introduces kids to the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza. It explores the famous pyramid, El Castillo, the Great Ball Court, and the Sacred Cenote. With vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling, it brings Chichen Itza’s history and culture to life for young readers.
Maya History for Kids is a captivating guide that takes young readers on a journey through the rich history and culture of the Maya civilization. It covers topics from the Olmecs to the Spanish conquest, exploring art, architecture, writing, and daily life in the Maya civilization. Through storytelling and interactive activities, it fosters an appreciation for this ancient culture.
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Download the free Chichen Itza Worksheet
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Last Updated on 3 September 2024 by Clare Brown