El Castillo (Chichen Itza)

El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulcán, is a famous step pyramid at Chichen Itza in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Built by the ancient Maya around the 12th century, it features a series of terraces with a staircase on each side. The pyramid is designed to reflect astronomical events; during the spring and fall equinoxes, the setting sun creates a shadow that appears as a serpent descending the staircase, symbolizing the deity Kukulcán. Its precise craftsmanship demonstrates advanced knowledge of astronomy and mathematics, making it an iconic symbol of Mayan engineering and cultural achievement.