Chichén Itzá pyramid reconstruction lacked archaeological evidence. Only two sides of the pyramid were restored to perfect condition; the other two remain in rougher condition Restoration in 1922 by Miguel Angel Fernandez was originally methodical using original stones Mexican government imposed reconstruction plans not based on evidence of original appearance but composites from other Maya sites
The 1922 restoration of Chichen Itza's pyramid was originally methodical using original stones, but the Mexican government then imposed reconstruction plans not based on evidence. The restoration was taken over—large portions were rebuilt with newly cut stone. The top temple was presented as ancient with no indication it was modern reconstruction.
Key Facts
- Only two sides of the pyramid were restored to perfect condition; the other two remain in rougher condition
- Restoration in 1922 by Miguel Angel Fernandez was originally methodical using original stones
- Mexican government imposed reconstruction plans not based on evidence of original appearance but composites from other Maya sites
- Fernandez refused and left the project; large portions were rebuilt from scratch using newly cut stone
- The temple at the top was reconstructed and presented as ancient with no indication of modern reconstruction
Related site: Chichén Itzá — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: Exposing Archaeology’s Darkest Secret by Michael Button