The Magic of Disney World

The Mexican pavilion at the World Showcase in Epcot is dominated by the Pre-Columbian pyramid that seems to rise from a jungle of tropical vegetation. The pyramid was patterned after the Aztec Temple of Quetzalcoatl at Teotihuacan. If you look up at the entrance to the pyramid, you’ll see serpents: a representation of Quetzalcoatl, the Aztec god of life.

The pavilion actually represents two regions of Mexico. The pyramid, surrounded by its exotic, lush flowers and shrubs, represents the Yucatan jungle, while the area around the Cantina de San Angel represents the dry, arid regions of Mexico. Take a look while you’re there: it’s an interesting contrast.
An interesting piece of trivia: Disney installed a heating system to keep the plants from getting too cold during the winter months.

As you walk inside the pyramid, you’ll see displays of Mexican culture. Stop and look for as long as your children’s patience will allow.

Further on into the pyramid, you’ll encounter La Plaza De Los Amigos, a colorful, lively Mexican plaza, complete with a thriving marketplace, colonial architecture, a fountain, a river, a mariachi band, and a bustling restaurant. Oh, yea…and it’s perpetual dusk at the plaza. Which makes it fun and interesting, but also makes it easy to lose children, so keep a close eye on them.

In the back of the pyramid lies El Rio del Tiempo, a leisurly boat ride through Mexican history and culture. This ride has been described by many as the Mexican version of It’s a Small World. Although that description is somewhat accurate, El Rio del Tiempo is entertaining and informative, and you get to sit through a cool, dark boat ride. I wouldn’t wait in line forever for this one, but…it’s worth a look!