El Caracol, roughly translates from Spanish to “The Snail Shell” it is also known as The Observatory. It is named after a snail’s shell since its interior staircase spirals downward similar to that of Church tower. El Caracol differs from the other structures at Chichen Itza because of its circular structure. It is set atop a rectangular platform, the Observatory’s windows face south and west. There’s a window slit that is aligned to the path of the moon in the night sky and it is particularly magnificent during the spring equinox night. Some believe it also follows the paths of Venus, the Sun, and the Pleides. It’s interesting to know that the same methods used back then by these ancient civilizations are, in fact, still somewhat used today. Aside from being an important part of Mayan history, in a way it’s also an important part of world history as a whole. Mayans are considered pioneers and experts in astrology, their Mayan Calendar, is said to be more accurate than the Roman calendar, albeit, by a few minor decimal numbers, and not enough to make a practical difference, at least for another thousand years. You shouldn’t miss the chance to see this ancient structure. If you find yourself in this area go ahead and loose yourself in this marvelous wonder of Mayan authenticity. Really, this is something that must be seen to be believed. But then again, everything here in Chichen Itza is of unbelievable stature.