We are fortunate to have unique archaeological sites of ancient human cultures near us
in this hemisphere.
The Dzibilchaltun Ruins are accessible from the Port of Progreso, Yucatan without the necessity of a 6-hour
long overland trek. And, travel via ocean-liner is the cheaper way of making such excursions than traditional air
/ land / hotel routes.
With that in mind we have put together the following unique excursion:
Sunrise thru the Temple of the Seven Dolls
Why visit Dzibilcaltun?
Dzibilchaltun (tzee-BEEL-chahl-toon), the "place with writing on the stones," is one of the major centers of Mayan culture in the
Yucatan, dating back to 500 BC.
But here’s an interesting question:
Why did they build this structure (below) where the rising sun pierces the openings of a Temple (in the distance) to strike directly
on the face of this monolith erected on a platform? ...and why ONLY on the day of equinox?
From a practical or scientific viewpoint, why might it be useful for ancient peoples to know the passage of days marking the
equinox?
And, why note equinox and winter/summer solstices, as so many European cultures also did (for instance, Stonehenge, and
Newgrange)?
Common logic can offer some good answers to these questions, and lead to further areas of research.
And, what mysteries allowed these ancient peoples to construct, so precisely, devices upon the earth that note the movements of
bodies in the heavens?
Actually, there’s no magic to it. In fact, students can construct a device of their own that will note the passing days of equinox and
solstice, just from an elementary understanding of the physical sciences.
The answer to many of these questions may be found at the site or within the “Museum of the Mayan People” at Dzibilchaltun
ruins. And if they are not, we will find them through a little deductive reasoning while exploring the site.
Additionally, the Dzibilchaltun site features a cenote (deep sinkhole in limestone with a pool) called X’lacah (ISH-lah-cah), that
provides fresh water. This pool, while shallow at one end, is 140 feet deep. You could sink a 14 story building into it and walk
across it’s rooftop lilke treading through a puddle. Archaeologists have found thousands of relics at the bottom of this pool.
Cenote de X’Lacah
And finally, we’ll visit a most unique 15th century building among the ruins.
Spanish Chapel at Dzibilchaltun
This is a chance to combine a unique educational excursion with a memorable family vacation. Through direct exposure one can
learn unforgettable lessons in history, geography, archaeology and culture. Plus experience the unique ecology and biology of the
protected Caribbean marine waters of Cozumel Island.
Please make deposits for this trip early!
[It is recommended that you wear comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and light-colored, loose fitting clothes
on field trips.]
Of course, you don't have to be an educator to book one of our cruises!
| Teacher Educational Cruises |
| Teacher Educational Cruises 2323 Clear Lake City Blvd., Suite #180-124, Houston, TX 77062. Tel (713)305-8232 Contact: james@teachereducationalcruises.com Member C.L.I.A. Tademarks and copyrights apply. |
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Isla Cozumel
| Educational Expeditions - 2007 |
Dzibilchaltun
