For centuries, the magnificent ruins of the ancient Mayan civilization have fascinated mankind. With their intriguing temples and fascinating architecture, the Mayan ruins in Belize have attracted generations of vacationers, as well as archaeologists, explorers, and history buffs.

It is believed that the Maya had discovered and used zero even before the Europeans. Its magnificent and impressive architecture is impressive. Several archaeological sites are open to the public and four of them are the most visited by the public. Let’s take a look at some of the most famous Mayan structures in Belize:

altun ha

Located north of Belize City, Altun Ha is called water from the rock. The Altun Ha ruins are famous for several reasons. The largest and most unique jade head sculpture from Kinich Ahau, symbolizing the Sun God of the Maya, was found here during excavations.

During the Classic Period (250 to 900 AD), Altun Ha was the main ceremonial center, as well as a key commercial center that connected the Caribbean coasts with the main Maya areas. The largest temple of the Freemasonry Altars at Altun Ha is 54 feet tall. Altun Ha is a favorite of many who vacation in Belize.

The pillar

Visited by many vacationers, El Pilar is unique in that it has only been partially excavated to intentionally allow visitors to experience the vastness of the jungle that has surpassed this once large and important site. The site is located on the Belize/Guatemala border, and the entrance to the site is only 7 miles from Bullet Tree Falls, Cayo District.

El Pilar consists of several excavated chambers and patios that are open to visitors, as well as many temples and mounds that remain as discovered. El Pilar is also popular with bird watchers on a Belize vacation and the Emerald Toucanet is commonly sighted. In the canopy you can see howler monkeys resting peacefully. El Pilar is an excellent choice for those vacationing in Belize in or around San Ignacio.

snail

This is a very popular site among Belize vacationers. Surrounded by jungle, the Caracol ruins contain massive structures, haunting tombs, and fascinating sculptures that give insight into the people who lived in this intriguing city. Caracol, meaning snail, was discovered in 1938, although excavation only began in 1985. Caracol’s largest pyramid, Canaa, at 140 feet tall, is the tallest man-made structure in Belize.

Caracol is in the district of Cayo. Many tour guides are available to take you to this fantastic Mayan site. If your Belize vacation takes you to the Cayo district, Caracol would be a great option to visit.

lubaatun

This is an interesting site in southern Belize. It stands out for the curvature of its architecture that was amazingly assembled without mortar. Lubaatun is also at the center of the Crystal Skull controversy. A British explorer supposedly discovered a crystal skull at this site in the 1920s. To this day, modern science cannot duplicate such a skull. The largest structure in Lubaantún rises 36 feet above the plaza floor. From the top of this structure there is a beautiful view of the foothills of the Mayan Mountains and the coastal plains of Toledo. The center of the site is located along a ridge twenty miles from the sea. Unlike other sites, the Maya at Lubaantún shaped the ridges and slopes of the hilltop rather than leveling it. The ceremonial center of this site has 11 main structures grouped around five main plazas. During your Belize vacation, Lubaatun is a must-see.

xunantunich

She is known as Maiden of the Rock. The 135 foot tower “El Castillo” in Xunantunich is the second tallest structure in Belize after Canaa in Caracol. Xunantunich is a short drive from San Ignacio and is close to the Belize/Guatemala border. It is a favorite of thousands of Belizean tourists each year. The site is well cared for and is a great place to learn about the mysterious Maya and spend a great day exploring. From the top of El Castillo, you can look out over miles of beautiful jungle and Guatemala. Another site-goer favorite is the ride down the Mopan River on an automatic hand-cranked ferry.

These are many more Mayan ruins in Belize. Whenever you are on vacation in Belize, be sure to explore the magnificent structures and architecture of the Mayan ruins. Let our reliable and efficient Belize vacation planners provide you with great vacation packages and arrange a comfortable hotel or Belize vacation rental for you.

Belize is very easy to reach. In fact, major airlines such as American, Continental, US Air, Delta, and Taca Airlines have daily flights of approximately two hours from various US cities to Belize International Airport.

Belize is a year-round destination.