Atlantean sculpture discovered at Chichen Itza

Archaeologists from the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) have uncovered an Atlantean-type sculpture during road prospecting work for the new Chichén Itzá route on Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula.

Atlantean sculptures, recognized for their anthropomorphic form, are stone representations of human-like figures that typically function architecturally as supporting columns or pillars. The term “Atlantean” originates from Atlas, the Titan in Greek mythology condemned to hold up the sky—mirroring the statues’ common depiction as bearers of architectural weight.

While similar sculptures have been found previously at Chichén Itzá, particularly in the Temple of the Warriors, this recent discovery is notable for its location in Chichén Viejo. It marks the first instance of such a statue being unearthed in that specific area of the site.

The sculpture measures 90 centimeters (about 3 feet) tall and portrays a figure with both arms raised, holding an object. What distinguishes this piece is its elaborate dress: a headband, a pectoral with four rows of what appear to be jade beads, elongated earmuffs, and bracelets. The facial characteristics of the figure show a strong resemblance to Huastec styles, suggesting a possible cultural link.

This find was publicly announced by Diego Prieto Hernández, the general director of INAH, during a press conference alongside President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. Prieto Hernández highlighted the importance of the discovery, noting how it reflects cultural interactions between the Maya civilization of Chichén Itzá and the societies of central and northwestern Mexico during the Terminal Classic and Early Postclassic periods (approximately CE 800–1200).

Atlantean figures became an important architectural element across Mesoamerica during the Postclassic period (circa CE 900–1500). Among the most iconic examples are the monumental basalt atlantes of Tula, the Toltec Empire’s capital. These towering statues, positioned atop the Temple of Tlahuizcalpantecuhtli (Temple of the Morning Star), once supported the roof and reach over 4 meters in height.

The opening of Chichén Viejo—a residential complex believed to have housed members of the ruling elite of Chichén Itzá—is set for September 2, 2023, as announced by Mexico’s Ministry of Culture through INAH.

Chichén Itzá itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Mexico’s most visited archaeological zones. At its height, the city supported a population of around 35,000 and features iconic monuments such as the Kukulkan Pyramid, the Temple of the Warriors, and the Ball Court.