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Martha's Photo Albums

Gallery: The Mayan Ruins near Uxmal, Mexico

September 12, 2008
Martha shares her photos from the Mayan ruins near Uxmal, Mexico.

My hostess, Paula Cussi, was kind enough to lend me a very ancient and wonderful hupil - a traditional hand woven smock-like dress. It was the appropriate, cool outfit to wear in the sweltering heat of this famous, but as of yet, mostly 'undiscovered' Mayan ruin near Uxmal.
This very freakish cluster of caterpillars on a tree trunk caught everyone's attention.
The stonework in these ruins is marvelous - simple, sturdy and very utilitarian.
I was escorted by one of the Yucatan's most knowledgeable archaologists. He took me to every part of the ruin, explaining the architecture and the history of the place. Ek Balam is just one of about 2600 Mayan ruins discovered in the Yucatan.
We, of course, climbed every building - small and large - the views were more spectacular the higher you climbed.
I wore a traditional crocheted petticoat under the hupil. Notice the cloud formations - we were so fortunate to have beautiful, if very hot, weather during our stay.
Two twin buildings - their use remains unknown - followed by the game stadium, and the incredible acropolis in the background.
Kevin stayed atop to photograph the rest of us as we made our way to the acropolis.
I could not wait to count the stairs - the best way is to just climb them!
When I reached the tombs, about two thirds of the way up, Frankie, the camera director, tried to get me to go no further.
The way down was very steep!
The view, as promised, was amazing across the flat plains of the Yucatan.
The steepness of the grand staircase is somewhat intimidating the higher you climb.
The archway - no one knows quite what this building was used for.
Kevin took some great portraits.
I love this photo.
A detail of my dress - the embroidered patterns are complex and colorful.
Here's another great view to the sky above.
What could this be used for??
I can just imagine an ancient ball game being played on this field.
The one-on-one games were actually played on the grass area and spectators sat on the side lines. There is a dispute as to what happened to the winners - some say they were sacrificed - but then why would anyone want to win??
Rather fancy stonework and clever chinking on some of the buildings.
Unfortunately, when not properly maintained, the buildings can revert to a jungle landscape in a very short time. Many of the pyramids are covered in trees and vines and indistinguishable from the landscape around.
My guide was astute and informative.
The embroidery around the neck of this dress is like fine jewelry.
Here's a good view of the twin buildings.
Was this a wall of stores? Or perhaps bedrooms? Or maybe some religious significance? So much is not known.
The carvings outside the tombs are elaborate and wonderful.
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