#Anthropology roundup: “Why Winter Solstice Celebrations Persist

At the ancient Maya-Toltec ceremonial complex of Chichén Itzá, tucked into the dense jungles of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, the El Castillo step pyramid rises from the center of a vast plaza. Flanked by open-mouthed stone serpents at its base, the pyramid—constructed in phases, possibly starting as early as A.D. 550—was an important center of worship. But for those who knew where to look, it was also a meticulously built testament to the celestial turning points of each year.