Standing in Uxmal’s Shadow: Kabah, Labna and Sayil

Standing in the shadow of Uxmal—in more ways than one—lie three smaller archeological zones: Sayil, Labna, and Kabah. Though their buildings show a lot of similarities, they were established at three different times. The only common denominator is their devotion to the god of rain, Chac. Any visit to Uxmal might not feel quite complete without seeing these three neighborhoods.

Kabah

Kabah is the largest of the three and it is thought to have been Uxmal’s rival at one point. As there are no natural water sources nearby, you’ll see Kabah’s own: a system for gathering the rain and distributing its water. No wonder they were devoted to Chac.

Kabah is also the most ornamented of the three settlements. Codz Poop is a long building entirely covered with Chac’s masks—simulating raindrops, maybe? Who knows. One thing is for sure, though—it’s not easily forgettable.

Labna

Though not as ornamented as Kabah, Labna’s archway is not any less beautiful. Archeologists believe this impressive structure was once part of a bigger one. Maybe a palace? There is a palace right in front of it, so maybe they were once connected, somehow. Either way, this single archway is more revolutionary than it may seem at first. It was the first to be considered a decorative feature, rather than just a passageway.

Sayil

Mayans liked their palaces, didn’t they? The Sayil Great Palace is an impressive structure; not only long but tall: it has three different floors. And there’s another palace close by. A little smaller, but no less impressive. Both were thought to be royal residences—this sure sounds like an exclusive neighborhood.

Visit all in one day

Though Uxmal might take you all day, you shouldn’t miss these three smaller sites. You can check them all out in one day, and they complement the bigger city quite nicely.