kal: Space of Union and Spirituality
Ikal, whose name in Mayan means "wind" or "spirit", is an architectural sanctuary dedicated to meditation and contemplation of the night sky. It is a place of searching for the spirit, a refuge where individuals can find themselves under the light of the stars. Architecturally, Ikal is presented as a night observatory, a 9-meter-diameter chukun cylinder that, during the day, frames the blue skies of the Yucatan Peninsula and, at night, is illuminated with stars that look like fireflies dancing in the sky. architectural space.
Design and Structure:
The chukun cylinder that constitutes Ikal is carefully protected by a coping stone surround, arranged in such a way that it integrates perfectly with the smooth surface of the chukun. This structure generates a series of slopes that link the architectural space with the surrounding natural environment. Access to Ikal is marked by a slightly inclined plane that guides visitors after crossing a stone floor. This access is framed by a rope of albarrada that seems to detach from the envelope of the building, creating a visual effect of continuity between the exterior and interior space.
Spirituality and Contemplation:
Ikal's design aims to capture space and generate a mystical and energetic atmosphere. The combination of natural materials such as stone and chukun, along with the careful arrangement of star lighting, creates an environment conducive to contemplation and spiritual connection. The presence of the Cassiopeia constellation planted in the shape of Chakas in the outer circular plaza adds a symbolic and magical element to the space, inviting visitors to explore the wonders of the universe while feeling connected to the earth.
Ikal from Heaven:
From an aerial perspective, Ikal resembles an asteroid impact in the "Chicxulub crater" area, reminiscent of the eternal connection between the cosmos and the earth. Its stone floor seems to merge with the ancestral geology of the place, symbolizing the continuity of time and the importance of star observation throughout human history.
Ikal is more than a star observatory; It is a portal to the infinite, a place where the human spirit meets the vast universe. This mystical space invites visitors to immerse themselves in contemplation, find inner peace and marvel at the immensity of the cosmos. At Ikal, wind and spirit intertwine, creating a timeless sanctuary where the connection between man and the universe is revealed in all its splendor.