The photos of Chichén Itzá and the surrounding cenotes drew my attention. When it was discovered, Chichén Itzá was covered in shrubbery and nature. The photo was taken by Salvador Badía, estimated to have been taken around 1915. It was most likely taken to document the large stone structure they found, and to bring it back to marvel at and explore later. It was most likely taken to be published somewhere, showing their feat in “discovering” such a beautiful monument. The same can be said about the photo of the cenote–it was probably taken to have evidence of their discovery. These two were probably also used to showcase the dangers of the land and further perpetrate the stereotypes of the time. The first article we read in class by Diego de Landa, Relación de las cosas de Yucatán, has the same connotations in my opinion. Landa discusses the dangers of the area he came across, recounting in detail how rough the waters were and the scorching heat and deceiving terrain. I can imagine the image of Chichén Itzá was used in a similar light.
Today, the temple at Chichén Itzá is a place of wonder, visited by tourists from across the world. The difference in how it looks today, after restoration, from when it was first discovered is phenomenal. However, it is also a bit sad. It is similar to the idea of how by exploring and “discovering” history, we are destroying a piece of it too. That is simply how it works; there is no other way to really go about it. I believe Chichén Itzá is a great example of this. Once it was discovered, the history of Mayan people and one of their biggest monuments was showcased for the world. However, in doing so, a piece of their history and of their way of living was ruined. A monument that was an integral part of their lives is now a tourist attraction, commercializing both that area and permanently altering the lives of those living around the area. Although their history is being shared, their futures have been permanently damaged.
