Chichén Itzá reopens after two-week closure due to artisan protests; access now via Visitor Center

After a two-week closure prompted by artisan protests, the renowned archaeological site of Chichén Itzá in Yucatán has reopened its doors to the public. The reopening on Monday saw artisans who had opposed the opening of the Centro de Atención a Visitantes (Catvi) begin relocating to sites assigned by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH).

According to INAH, this reorganization of the archaeological zone will not permit the entry of new artisans. Existing vendors will maintain their positions based on a 2025 census. Artisans who were previously situated at the old entrance are being moved to new locations between the new Chichén Itzá access point and a nearby cenote. INAH national director Joel Omar Vázquez Herrera stated that there is ample space for all artisans selling their products within the archaeological site.

The reopening confirmed that public access to Chichén Itzá is now exclusively through the Centro de Atención a Visitantes (CATVI). This measure is part of a comprehensive strategy aimed at reorganizing the site. The goal is to bolster tourism, ensure a better experience for visitors, and create suitable conditions for the economic activities of communities connected to the heritage site.

The conflict, which lasted nearly two weeks, led to the closure of one of Mexico's most significant tourist destinations. The resolution and subsequent reopening are expected to restore visitor flow and provide a more structured environment for both tourists and the local artisan community.