Pronunciation: [ˈɪtsə] (IPA) 
The word "ITZA" is spelled with the phonetic transcription /iːtsə/. The first sound /iː/ is a long "e" sound, followed by the consonant sound /ts/, which is a combination of the "t" and "s" sounds. The final sound /ə/ is the schwa sound, which is a short, unstressed vowel sound. The spelling mirrors the sounds heard in its pronunciation. "ITZA" is also the name of an archaeological site in Mexico, known for its Mayan ruins.
ITZA refers to a historical and linguistic term that has multiple applications. Firstly, it denotes an indigenous Mayan civilization that thrived during pre-Columbian times in what is now known as Guatemala and Mexico. The Itza people were renowned for their advanced architectural achievements, particularly the construction of the famous city of Chichen Itza, which serves as a prominent archaeological site and popular tourist attraction today.
Secondly, ITZA can also signify the language spoken by the Itza civilization. Itza is classified as a Mayan language and is regarded as a significant branch of this linguistic family. This language exhibitss its own unique linguistic features, grammar, vocabulary, and phonetics that differentiate it from other dialects within the Mayan language group.
Additionally, ITZA can refer to the contemporary Mayan ethnic group that descends from the ancient Itza civilization. These individuals continue to reside in the areas surrounding Chichen Itza and have preserved aspects of their ancestral culture and traditions throughout the years. The Itza people have a distinct cultural heritage characterized by their customs, religious practices, clothing, artistic expressions, and agricultural techniques. They maintain a strong attachment to their historical roots and play an active role in the preservation and promotion of their indigenous identity.
Overall, ITZA denotes various historical, linguistic, and ethnic elements linked to the ancient Mayan civilization, including the civilization itself, the language spoken by its inhabitants, and the contemporary indigenous group that traces its ancestry back to this influential Mesoamerican culture.
