| Belize Mayan Ruins |
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As 2012 approaches and the end of the Mayan Calendar, many myths and legends are being explored. Is it the end of time? Discover for yourself through this exciting and informative day in Belize and experience the people, history and mysterious myths that surround the 2012 Mayan Culture and Ruins
Did you know? Belize's population, which is now 300,000 was over 1 million people during the classic period (250 A.D. to 900 A.D.) when Belize became the heart of the Mayan civilization. To this day, there is still a significant Mayan population living in small villages throughout the country.
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Altun Ha |
Altun Ha means Water of the Rock. It was here that the largest carved jade artifact known as the Jade Head was found. This Jade Head represents the Sun God, Kinich Ahau, and can be seen in the corner of every Belizean banknote. Altun Ha is also known for its magnificent Green Tomb. Altun Ha was also a major ceremonial center during the Classic Period (250-900A.D) and functioned as a vital trading center linking the Caribbean shores with other Maya centers. Altun Ha is located 31 miles north of Belize City. |
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Cahal Pech |
Cahal Pech means Place of the Ticks. Cahal Pech is one of the medium sized Maya centers. It is situated along the bank of the Macal River in the Cayo District an offers visitors a panoramic view of San Ignacio and the Belize River Valley.Cahal Pech is located in San Ignacio. |
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Cherros |
Cerros is located in the north of Belize on a peninsula across from Corozal Town and in the Bay of Chetumal. During the Pre-Classic Period (100B.C- 250A.D), Cerros was important as a coastal trading center. During this time, Cerros expressed new forms of art and architecture that proved to be crucial for the formation of classic Maya art and architecture |
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El Pilar |
The El Pilar Archaeological Reserve for Maya Flora and Fauna is located just 12 miles (approximately 19 kilometers) north of the western town of San Ignacio, astride the Belize-Guatemala border. The ridge land escarpment where El Pilar is situated extends from Guatemala's Peten into Belize, north of the Belize River valley.
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Lubaantun |
Place of Fallen Stones, is noted for it unusual style of construction. the large pyramids and terraces are made of dressed stone blocks with no mortar binding them together. The buildings on top of the pyramids were made of perishable materials and hence no longer remain. Lubaantun is located in Punta Gorda, Toledo district. |
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Xunantunich |
Xunantunich (pronounced Su-nan-tu-nich) means Maiden of the Rock. It is the second tallest Maya ruin in Belize and is located across the river from the village of San Jose Succotz in the Cayo district. It stands 130ft (40 meters) high and gives a panoramic view of the Cayo District and Guatemala. Xunantunich was a major ceremonial site, built on a natural limestone ridge during the Classic Period. |
