View of the Observatory (El Caracol Observatorio) from our hotel lobby in Chichen Itza, Mexico (Nikon FE) 2010. FYI - El Caracol (The "Snail" or Observatory) was constructed over several centuries; the additions and modifications reflect the Mayas' careful observation of celestial movements and increasingly exact measurements. Through slits in the tower walls, Mayan astronomers observed the cardinal directions, the approach of the spring and autumn equinoxes, as well as the summer solstice. The Spanish name, which means "snail," was inspired by a spiral staircase inside.
