The measure seeks to protect heritage from erosion and human damage; surveillance will be reinforced after incidents with tourists during the spring equinox.
Starting this week, visitors to the Chichén Itzá archaeological site must admire El Castillo (the iconic Mayan pyramid) from a minimum distance of 15 meters, as determined by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH).
The measure, implemented with perimeter tapes, seeks to protect the structure from erosion, humidity, and human contact.
The INAH strengthened protocols following the incident on March 21, when a 38-year-old German tourist bypassed security during the spring equinox, illegally climbed the pyramid, and hid in its inner chamber.
The incident sparked outrage among visitors and highlighted the site’s vulnerability.
Since 2006, climbing the buildings at Chichén Itzá has been prohibited, but in recent years, three people have violated the rule and received fines for property damage.
Chichén Itzá, a World Heritage Site and one of Mexico’s most visited destinations, faces challenges due to its high tourist influx. The INAH insists that these actions are key to preserving the Mayan legacy.
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