MEXICO CITY.- Chichén Itzá, one of Mexico's most iconic archaeological sites, has a new director: María Guadalupe Espinosa Rodríguez, a highly respected archaeologist with decades of experience in research, conservation, and heritage management. This appointment, a joint decision by the Mexican Ministry of Culture and the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), marks a significant moment for the preservation and study of this ancient Maya city.


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Espinosa Rodríguez brings an impressive academic background to the role. She holds a degree and a master's in Anthropology, specializing in Archeology, from the University of the Americas-Puebla and the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), respectively. Her master's thesis, focused on management models for archaeological heritage conservation in Mexico, even received honorable mention. Furthering her expertise, she earned a doctorate in Society and Culture, specializing in Culture and Heritage Management, from the University of Barcelona, Spain. Her doctoral thesis, which examined cultural policy and the management of archaeological zones in Mexico, was approved with honors.

But Espinosa Rodríguez isn't just an academic; she’s a seasoned professional with extensive hands-on experience. Before taking on the leadership of Chichén Itzá’s archaeological zone, museum, and visitor center (CATVI), she served as head of the Site Operations Directorate (DOS) within INAH's National Coordination of Archeology from 2014 to December 2023. This crucial role gave her direct oversight of the management and operation of 194 archaeological sites and one paleontological site open to the public across Mexico.

Her time at DOS was marked by significant achievements. She played a key role in coordinating the archaeological efforts related to the ambitious Tren Maya project, ensuring the preservation of cultural heritage along the railway's route. She also led the challenging recovery of archaeological sites damaged by the devastating 2017 earthquakes and oversaw the complex process of reopening these sites after the COVID-19 pandemic closures.

Espinosa Rodríguez is known for her innovative approach to site management. She is the first specialist to implement carrying capacity studies and develop guidelines for handling large events at archaeological sites nationwide, ensuring both visitor access and the long-term preservation of these fragile locations.

Her experience extends beyond national-level management. She previously served as director of the El Tajín Archaeological Zone in Veracruz, where she also coordinated the site's management plan and even drafted management plans for thirteen other archaeological sites in the state.

Her career has taken her to various research positions, including at the INAH Center in Campeche, Columbia University in New York, and INAH’s Archaeological Salvage Directorate, where she participated in the excavation of the colonial building La Merced. She also worked at the Paquimé Archaeological Zone in Chihuahua.

Espinosa Rodríguez has collaborated on prominent archaeological projects throughout Mexico. She was part of archaeologist Saburo Sugiyama's team at the Pyramid of the Moon Project in Teotihuacan, State of Mexico, and contributed to projects at Chakanbakán in Quintana Roo and Comalcalco in Tabasco.

Her experience also includes working at the National Museum of History, where she headed the Archeology Department and coordinated the Bosque de Chapultepec Archaeological Project. She also contributed to the conservation of historical and archaeological buildings within INAH’s National Coordination of Historical Monuments.

Beyond her practical work, Espinosa Rodríguez has shared her knowledge as a teacher at the Autonomous University of the State of Mexico and the Ibero-American University. She is also a published author, with numerous articles in specialized books and journals focusing primarily on archaeological conservation.

With her extensive experience, deep understanding of archaeological preservation, and proven leadership, María Guadalupe Espinosa Rodríguez is well-equipped to guide Chichén Itzá into the future, balancing the needs of visitors with the vital task of preserving this invaluable piece of human history. Her appointment signals a commitment to the continued study, protection, and responsible management of this world-renowned site.


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