On social media, many viewers stunned after a viral video showed German tourist climbs forbidden Mayan temple in Mexico.
A German tourist was arrested after illegally climbing the Temple of Kukulcan in Mexico.
The incident took place at Chichen Itza, a famous archaeological site in Yucatan. Climbing the temple is strictly forbidden, as it holds cultural and historical significance.
Tourist arrested after trespassing on sacred Mayan site
On social media, a video captured a shocking moment of a man ascending the steps while locals shouted in protest.
A security guard quickly follows him to the top. As he descends, the crowd below yells in anger.
Moments later, members of the Mexican National Guard arrive and detain him.
“He eluded us, even though we’re keeping watch,” a National Guard member told Mexico News Daily. “He ran past us. He’s clearly in good physical condition.”
Social media users reacted with outrage, condemning his actions.
Social media reacts to the controversy
Many online users debated the incident. Some expressed confusion, recalling past visits where climbing was allowed. Others criticized the tourist’s blatant disregard for local rules.
One person said: He doesn’t even know he took a curse home with him.
A second wrote: Lmao. He went inside like he was going inside his house.
While a third commented: Did they at least get to enjoy the refreshing water from Mexican jail?
Another added: Been there twice and climbed it both times, but that was over 30 years ago. Climbing most of the pyramids in Egypt is allowed.
Someone else said: How disrespectful. Those stairs were meant for decapitated heads to roll down, not for some white tourist to climb up. Please be respectful to the culture, thank you.
Tourists always disrespect everything wherever they go. Another user added.
National Guard intervenes as crowd reacts
This incident is part of a growing trend of tourists disrespecting sacred sites worldwide.
In recent years, similar cases have occurred at other historic landmarks.
Authorities continue to reinforce rules to prevent further damage to cultural heritage. Mexican officials urge visitors to respect local laws and traditions.
As officers escorted the tourist away, angry onlookers struck and shouted at him. Some even called for his “sacrifice,” referencing ancient Mayan rituals.
Additionally, Officials from the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) attempted to protect him from the aggressive crowd.
The tourist was taken into custody, though his specific charges remain unclear.
The Temple of Kukulcan, built over 1,000 years ago, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. During the equinox, a unique light and shadow effect creates the illusion of a serpent slithering down the steps.
Thousands of visitors gather annually to witness this spectacle. Authorities strictly enforce climbing bans to preserve the temple’s structure.
The German tourist’s actions sparked outrage among both locals and social media users. Authorities swiftly arrested him, preventing further escalation.
Preservation efforts remain crucial in protecting these ancient landmarks for future generations.