Near Chichén Itzá’s Great Ballcourt, the Eagles & Jaguars Platform is a compact ceremonial structure with stairways on four sides. Its carved panels show eagles and jaguars gripping human hearts, while feathered serpents climb the balustrades. The detailed stonework is easy to miss beside larger monuments, so pause to look closely at the reliefs and the restored frieze. The carvings offer a glimpse of the rituals and beliefs associated with this ancient Maya and Toltec-style platform.
Carvings on the platform
The platform has a square plan and stairways on all four sides. Its design combines Maya and Toltec styles. Feathered serpents appear along the stair balustrades, while raised panels show eagles and jaguars clutching human hearts.
The reliefs are relatively small beside Chichén Itzá’s larger monuments, but the figures reward a closer look. The platform has been restored, and its sides and carved details are visible. Walk around it to view the panels from different angles.
A ceremonial setting
The structure was used for religious ceremonies. Its imagery connects the animals, warfare and ritual: the eagles and jaguars are depicted with human hearts, and the feathered serpent Kukulcán appears on the balustrades.
Raised panels at the base are also associated with the sun’s journey across the sky and its descent into the underworld. The platform’s location near the Great Ballcourt makes it easy to include as a short stop while exploring this part of the archaeological site.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is the Eagles & Jaguars Platform?
It is near the Great Ballcourt at Chichén Itzá.
What can you see on the platform?
Look for panels showing eagles and jaguars holding human hearts, along with feathered serpents on the balustrades.
What was the platform used for?
It was used for religious ceremonies.
