Chichen_Itza.gif (4204 bytes)

Temple of the Warriors

Especially when viewed from the top of the Pyramid, the Temple of the Warriors is an awesome sight. The structure is named for the columns along the front of the main temple, over 200 in all and all carved with Toltec warriors on each side.

Temple of the Warriors View from Pyramid (19KB)

The temple is apparently dedicated to the god Chac-Mool. The staircases have Chac masks on either side and there is a reclining statue of the god (with an offertory dish in his belly) in the center of the temple.

Temple of Warriors Steps (11KB)

The carved columns and staircase in the front of the temple.

Temple of Warriors Column (13KB)

Janet among the carved columns.

Temple of Warriors Side View (12KB)

The west facade of the temple with carved panels.

Marketplace Column (7KB)

Along the west side of the temple are more rows of columns bringing the total for the whole temple site to more than 1000. These (as well as the columns in front) probably held a thatched roof. Most guides refer to this area as the marketplace.