Ah Ulil facts for kids

Ah Ulil, often called Ulil, was an important Maya ruler. He governed the city of Izamal during the 11th century. His story involves brave acts, sports, and even a dramatic love triangle.

Ulil's Early Life and Challenges

Before Ulil was born, his uncle, Ah Tunal, witnessed a major event. The Toltec people invaded Chichen Itza, a powerful Maya city. Their leader was Ce Acatl Topiltzin, known in Maya stories as Kukulcan.

A Dangerous Encounter

One day, a young Ulil faced a fierce jaguar. He managed to defeat the animal but was badly hurt. Luckily, Ix Xail came to his rescue. She was the sister of Chaka, Ulil's biggest rival in the exciting Maya ballgame called pok-ol-pok.

Learning and Creating

While Ulil was recovering, he worked with his uncle, Ah Tunal. Ah Tunal was busy carving large pictures, called frescoes, of the Toltec conquerors. Ulil, showing his artistic talent, sculpted a jaguar.

Pok-ol-pok Champion

Later, Ulil's team became champions! They won the pok-ol-pok championship in Chichen Itza. After their big win, they traveled to visit other cities.

Kukulcan and the Drought

During this time, Kukulcan, the Toltec leader, ordered a statue of himself. He wanted it to remind people of his rule while he was away in Tula.

A Time of Drought

The land faced a serious drought, meaning there was not enough rain. To ask for rain, Ix Xail was chosen for a special ceremony to the rain god, Yum Chac. However, a huge rainstorm arrived just in time, ending the drought and saving her.

The Story of Canek and Sac-Nicte

In 1194, a new king named Canek took the throne in Chichen Itza. On the very day he became king, he met Princess Sac-Nicte. She was 15 years old, and they quickly fell in love.

A Fated Marriage

However, Sac-Nicte was already promised to someone else. She was destined to marry Ah Ulil.

The Wedding Day Drama

Legend says that a young advisor told Canek that Sac-Nicte would be waiting among green flowers. On the day of the wedding, Canek arrived with 60 of his best warriors. He stormed the altar, shouting "Itzalan! Itzalan!" as if he were on a battlefield. He then took the princess away from the wedding ceremony.

A Possible Cause of Conflict

These dramatic events might have been one of the reasons that led to Hunac Ceel overthrowing the government of Chichen Itza later on.