This is Ik Kil Cenote (or Ikil Cenote) located near the ancient Mayan city of Chichen Itza, Mexico. A cenote a collapse of limestone bedrock known as a sinkhole, often exposing groundwater at the bottom. The Yucatan in Mexico has many cenotes as the bedrock is porous limestone. As rain for millions of years ate away at the limestone, huge underground caves were formed. When the roof of the caves collapses, a cenote is born. Ancient Mayan referred to them as 'dzonots' meaning sacred wells as they provided water during long dry seasons and were believed to be portals to the underworld making communication with the God's possible. Today, they are ancient swimming pools :).
This particular centoe is beautifully lit and a platform was been carved into the limestone to allow for swimming and viewing. The water is about 100 feet deep and has a diameter of about 200 feet. Gorgeous vines descend for the top of the cenote and black catfish can be seen below swimming. Bucket list worthy?
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