New Protections Expand at Chichén Itzá’s El Castillo

Mérida, Mexico — The National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), a branch of the federal Secretary of Culture, has implemented new protective measures for the iconic El Castillo pyramid at the Chichén Itzá archaeological site. Beginning this Tuesday, the restricted access perimeter around the structure, also known as the Temple of Kukulcán, has been expanded.

The decision aims to prevent unauthorized approaches to the pre-Hispanic pyramid while enhancing surveillance by the site’s custodial staff. INAH emphasized that the measure will remain under constant evaluation and reiterated its call for both domestic and international visitors to respect the established boundaries at Chichén Itzá and the more than 190 archaeological sites open to the public across Mexico.

“The cooperation of tourists is essential to preserving Mexico’s ancestral legacy,” the institute stated.

Diplomatic Visit Coincides with New Measures

Coinciding with the implementation of these changes, the archaeological site hosted United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, who toured the UNESCO World Heritage location. During his visit, Guterres was accompanied by Dr. María Guadalupe Espinosa, director of the archaeological zone; Lic. Clemente Escalante, head of the Patronato de las Unidades de Servicios Culturales y Turísticos del Estado de Yucatán (CULTUR); and archaeologists Francisco Pérez Ruiz and Gabriel Euan, who provided a detailed explanation of the site’s historical and cultural significance.

The tour also included a visit to the Gran Museo de Chichén Itzá, where the diplomat learned more about Mayan cosmology and the archaeological richness of the area. These actions underscore the commitment of the Mexican government and the international community to safeguarding humanity’s cultural heritage.