A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Chicanná: A Journey to the Mayan Past in Campeche, Mexico

Located in the state of Campeche, on the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, Chicanná is an archaeological site that offers a fascinating insight into the ancient Mayan civilization. The name Chicanná, which means "House of the Serpent Mouth" in Mayan, reflects the rich history and culture of this impressive site.

History of Chicanná

Chicanná was an important ceremonial center of the Mayan culture during the Classic period (600-830 AD). Archaeologists believe that Chicanná was a satellite site of the nearby Mayan city of Becán. Although smaller than Becán, Chicanná is famous for its well-preserved buildings and intricate reliefs and sculptures.

Main Attractions

The archaeological site of Chicanná features several impressive structures. The most famous is Structure II, also known as the House of the Serpent Mouth. This building gets its name from the huge snake mouth carved at the entrance, which represents Itzamná, the Mayan god of the sky, night, and day.

Other notable structures include Structure XX and Structure I, which feature a series of rooms and courtyards, as well as detailed reliefs and sculptures.

Surroundings of Chicanná

In addition to exploring Chicanná, visitors can visit the nearby city of Becán, which was an important Mayan ceremonial center. Becán features a number of impressive structures, including a large temple and a series of palaces and plazas.

Another nearby attraction is the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, one of the largest and best-preserved tropical rainforest areas in Mexico. The reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including jaguars, howler monkeys, and a wide variety of birds.

Practical Information

Chicanná is open to the public every day of the week, and there is a small entrance fee. It is recommended to bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. It is also advisable to bring a hat and comfortable clothing to protect yourself from the sun and heat.

To get to Chicanná, you can take a bus or a taxi from the city of Campeche. There are also organized tours that include transportation, guide, and sometimes food.

Gastronomic Products of Chicanná

• Cochinita Pibil

  Chicanná, like the rest of the Campeche region, is famous for its cochinita pibil. This traditional dish from the Yucatán peninsula is made with pork marinated in achiote and sour orange juice, wrapped in banana leaves and cooked in an earth oven. It is served shredded and accompanied by pickled red onion.

• Panuchos and Salbutes

  Panuchos and salbutes are two types of typical snacks from the region. Panuchos are tortillas stuffed with refried beans and fried, served with shredded chicken, red onion, avocado, and tomato sauce. Salbutes are fried and inflated tortillas served with chicken, turkey or pork, lettuce, tomato, avocado, and sauce.

• Fish and Seafood

  Given its coastal location, Chicanná also offers a wide variety of fresh fish and seafood. The most popular dishes include grilled fish, coconut shrimp, and octopus or shrimp ceviche. All these dishes are prepared with fresh and local ingredients, ensuring their taste and quality.

Sporting Activities in Chicanná

Hiking

Chicanná offers hiking routes through the jungle, where visitors can appreciate the local flora and fauna, as well as visit the Mayan ruins.

Cycling

Cycling is an excellent way to explore Chicanná and its surroundings. There are several routes available, which vary in difficulty and length.

Snorkeling

Although Chicanná is inland, it is a short drive away from the Gulf of Mexico coast, where visitors can go snorkeling and explore the region's marine life.

Bird Watching

The Chicanná region is home to a wide variety of bird species, making it a popular destination for bird watching. Visitors can expect to see everything from colorful toucans to majestic hawks.

Nearby Places to Chicanná

If you're in Chicanná and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Calakmul, a tourist destination in Mexico, offers a rich historical experience with its ancient Mayan ruins and a delicious local cuisine that includes traditional dishes such as cochinita pibil and chaya tamales.

Xpujil, a charming destination in Campeche, Mexico, offers stunning Mayan ruins to explore and a rich local cuisine with dishes such as tikin xic fish and cochinita pibil. A paradise for lovers of history and food.

Becán, an ancient Mayan settlement in Mexico, offers a unique historical immersion. Visitors can explore impressive ruins and enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine, with local dishes such as cochinita pibil and panuchos.