German tourist scaling the Temple of Kukulkán. Credit: Facebook, Teresa Arroyo
A German tourist was arrested after illegally climbing the Temple of Kukulkán at Chichén Itzá, Mexico, during the Spring Equinox celebration.
The 38-year-old man sparked widespread anger and physical confrontation from fellow onlookers.
According to Mexico News Daily, the man evaded security on Thursday, March 20, and scaled the 25-metre-high pyramid – a sacred Mayan site and UNESCO World Heritage location – among crowds of 8,000–9,000 people.
Footage of the incident shared by an onlooker shows the man racing up the ancient structure on all fours, while people from the crowd shout “idiot!” and “stupid!”
Crowds jeer as German tourist climbs the Temple of Kukulkán at Chichén Itzá
The situation intensified once the man reached the summit. Evrim Ağacı reports that he attempted to hide inside the chamber at the top before being escorted down by staff from the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH). However, he was met with a furious crowd who physically attacked him, resulting in a bleeding head injury. Some even called for him to be “sacrificed” – referencing the ancient rituals once performed at the pyramid.
“He eluded us, even though we’re keeping watch on the western side of the temple,” a National Guard officer cited by Mexico News Daily. “He ran past us. He’s clearly in good physical condition.”
The German man, whose name has not been released, was handed over to local authorities. He may face fines under Article 55 of Mexico’s Federal Law on Archaeological, Artistic, and Historical Monuments and Zones.
Why do people travel to the Temple of Kukulkán for Spring Equinox?
Climbing the pyramid has been banned since 2008 to protect its structure and cultural significance. The Temple of Kukulkán is central to the Spring Equinox event when sunlight casts the illusion of a serpent descending the staircase — a phenomenon known as the Descent of the Feathered Serpent.
The Spring Equinox event, held annually between March 20-24, draws global crowds seeking to witness the natural show and celebrate Mayan heritage.
As Mexico News Daily recalls, this is not the first time a visitor has sparked outrage. In 2022, a woman was met with chants of “Lock her up!” after a similar offence.
The Daily Mail recalls that in 2023, a Polish tourist was assaulted with a wooden stick after climbing Kukulcan steps. Footage showed him being led down by two security guards and abused. A bare-chested man with a long stick approached the tourist from behind and struck him on the back of the head.
Authorities and locals have urged greater respect for these ancient sites.
View all travel news.
