Comparing the Art of Tula and Chichen Itza

What can be referred to as the “Toltec-Maya connection” is a very unique occurrence in Mesoamerica. Chichen Itza and Tula share many similarities in architecture and symbolism found on both sites: specifically, the Temple of the Warriors at Chichen Itza and Pyramid B at Tula. This week, we will be “travelling” to both sites to examine their similarities and differences and consider the relevancy of a Toltec occupation at Chichen Itza.

Temple of the Warriors at Chichen Itza
Source - http://archaeology.about.com/od/archaeologic
7/ig/Chichen-Itza/Temple-of-the-Warriors.htm

Similar to Pyramid B at Tula, The Temple of the Warriors at Chichen Itza displays similar relief carvings of both deities and Toltec warriors. Both sites also boast carvings of ballplayers, jaguars, and eagles in a recognizably Toltec motif. Most interestingly, atop the Temple of the Warriors sits a Chac-Mool statue surrounded by Serpent Columns reminiscent of the Feathered Serpent deity. While a Chac-Mool statue was first found at Tula, the numerous depictions of Quetzalcoatl are even more unusual. While the Maya were known to have worshipped the Feathered Serpent, it was far more common within Toltec belief.

Pyramid B at Tula
Source - http://backpackingdave.com/p
hotogallery_mexico2009.html

While exceptionally similar, the Temple of the Warriors at Chichen Itza does differ from Pyramid B at Tula. The most obvious difference between the two sites is size; Pyramid B at Tula was constructed on a dramatically smaller scale. Although much of the symbolism is shared in various aspects of both sites, it can be displayed differently. For example, Chac-Mool statues were found at Tula (7 to be exact) however they sat around the base of the pyramid and not directly on top (although the serpent columns do sit on top of Pyramid B in a similar fashion to Chichen Itza).  

Chac-Mool Statue
Source - http://www.tumblr.com/tagged/chac%20mool

The cause of similarities between the two sites cannot be known for certain. It may be due to migration, conquest, or any other unknown factor. One notable relationship between the two sites is religion (considering the depictions of Quetzalcoatl). It is possible that the Toltec Empire conquered the Mayans and influenced their society from architecture to belief systems. Through further study of both Pyramid B and The Temple of the Warriors it may be possible to uncover more about how the Toltec and Mayan empires intermingled and developed together.

Ancient Wisdom. “Tula.” Accessed February 28, 2013. http://www.ancient-wisdom.co.uk/mexicotula.htm

Chichen Itza. “Temple of the Warriors.” Accessed March 1, 2013. http://www.chichenitza.com/listingview.php?listingID=16

Roth, Leland M. Understanding Architecture: Its Elements, History, and Meaning. Colorado: Westview Press, 2007.

UNESCO. “Pre-Hispanic City of Chichen-Itza.” Accessed March 2, 2013. http://whc.unesco.org/en/list/483