Chichen Itza is a large pre-Columbian archaeological site in Yucatan, Mexico, built by the Mayan Civilization. The Maya name "Chich'en Itza" means "At the mouth of the well of the Itza (people)"
"Chichen" contains many fine stone buildings in various states of preservation; the buildings were formerly used as temples, palaces, stages, markets, baths, and ballcourts.
Archaeologists have recognized both Maya and Toltec influences in the architecture: most believe that the Toltecs influenced the Itza, but some argue that the influence was in the other direction.
Chichen was a major center by about 600 in the middle of the Maya Classic period, but the city saw its greatest growth and power after the Maya sites of the central lowlands to the south had already collapsed.
