From the entrance, walk parallel to the road to the southernmost structure. A short but very steep staircase leads to a raised platform and to Codz Poop, Kabah’s most ornate building and one of the most arresting structures on the Puuc Route.

Dedicated to the rain god, Chac, and measuring nearly 45 meters (147.6 feet) long and 6 meters (19.7 feet) high, the temple’s entire west facade is covered in some 250 Chac masks, with the typical googly-eyes and long hooked nose. Even the steps into the doorways are modified Chac noses.

Looking close, you can see how each mask is made of the same set of pieces, and can imagine a Maya manufacturing line, with carvers churning out scores of eyelids, pupils, teeth, etc., and others assembling the masks on the temple.

The rear side of Cotz Poop is nearly as impressive, with huge stucco figures set against a latticework frieze. Be sure to peek at the side panels of the main door, where impressive bas-reliefs depict battle scenes.