Chichen Itza Before the Tourists

Is Chichen Itza authentic? Does it matter?

Chichen Itza is one of Mexico’s top tourist attractions, visited by well over a million people per year. It’s become the most iconic site on the Yucatan Peninsula both because it is the home to remarkable ruins and because it’s close enough to Cancun for a day trip.

Today, the experience of visiting the archaeological site is similar to what you’ll find at many of the world’s most famous ancient ruins. Chichen Itza is an unforgettable place, but it’s crowded with tourists — many…