Ancient Maya Chetumal was not today’s Mexican Chetumal, but what is now Santa Rita on the outskirts of Corozal Town. Ancient Chetumal, wealthy because of the large production of cacao and honey, ruled the areas on both sides of the … Read more…

This Late Classic ceremonial center is noted for its unusual style of construction distinctive of southern Belize. The large pyramids and residences are made of dresses stone blocks with no mortar binding them together.

The name Nim Li Punit is derived from a carving on one of the site’s twenty six stelae, which depicts a figure wearing a large headdress. In the Maya Kekchi language, Nim li Punit means “the big hat.”

Lamanai is the Maya word for “submerged crocodile.” The site’s name – “Lamanay” or “Lamayna” was recorded by Franciscan missionaries in the seventeenth century. It is one of the only sites retaining its original name and is among one of … Read more…

Altun Ha was a wealthy ceremonial center boasting two main plazas, thirteen structures (including the Temple of Sun God or the Temple of the Masonry Altars).

El Pilar means “pillar” in Spanish and it was named after an army camp in the area. El Pilar is one of Belize’s largest Classic Maya sites with a well-defined ceremonial section including both private and public areas. There are … Read more…