For a glimpse of one of the Yucatan’s most important archaeological sites, head east from Campeche City 60 km to Edzna. The city flourished during the Classic period, and was a contemporary of Palenque. By 650 A.D. there is evidence the city was inhabited by as many as 70,000 Maya.

A great acropolis, its wealth of buildings and styles give a good idea of the enormous political, economic and religious power of the city. Standing on the top of the Five-Story Building, its most important construction, you will enjoy a view of the most important and monumental structures. Located at the bottom of a valley, Edzna used to flood in the rainy season. As a solution to the problem, they built a complex network of canals used to transport goods and people and to defend them from outside attack.

Edzna then began to decline, and by 900 A.D., invaders had sacked the city. Buildings and other structures are scattered over 2 kilometers. The central plaza (160 m. long and 100 m. wide) contains some exquisite buildings. Limestone temples, stucco masks, a ball court, an amphitheater, and a complex system of water canals place this site in an elite group of Mexico’s most advanced Pre-Columbian cities. The Pyramid of the Five Levels (31 meters tall) can be seen as you approach the site. Visitor counts are small, allowing for leisurely, contemplative exploration. A light and sound show every Friday and Saturday evening enhances this stunning sight.