Overview:

: Altun Ha is a ruined ancient Mayan city located in the modern-day Belize. This temple was occupied by the Preclassic and Classic periods of Mayan civilization, and evidence suggests the site was occupied even before then. The main architectural feature of the site is its two main Temple Pyramids, the Temple of the Masonry Altars and the Temple of the Green Tomb. These two temples, as well as the other smaller temples on site, stand as a remnant of the great Mayan city that once was. This site has been an important part of Mayan history and is considered one of the most significant in Belize. Altun Ha is an incredible example of the grandeur and sophistication of the ancient Mayan civilization. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Belize
Prominent Features:

1. Largest Structure: Altun Ha’s most distinctive feature is its largest structure, a pyramid known as Temple of the Green Tomb. It rises to over 33 meters high and is made up of nine stepped terraces. It is believed to have been constructed around A.D. 250 and is thought to have been both a temple and a royal tomb. 2. Interesting Archaeological Finds: Archaeologists have excavated several interesting artifacts from within the Temple of the Green Tomb, including over 500 jade carvings, as well as copper masks and mosaic masks. There have also been findings of a variety of other items such as pottery and sculptures. 3. Unique Structure: The Temple of the Green Tomb is the only Mayan structure in Belize that features a unique triple staircase. This suggests it was made for an important purpose related to the Gods. 4. Spectacular Cliff top Views: The Temple of the Green Tomb offers spectacular views of the Belizean coastline and mountains. It is at the highest point of the site, and the views from the top are simply breathtaking. 5. Natural Setting: Altun Ha is located within an area of lush jungle and is itself situated within mangrove vegetation, making it the perfect location to explore the rare beauty of the Belizean landscape. This national monument of Belize portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Altun Ha is a Pre-Columbian archaeological site in Belize, located in the Belize District about 30 miles north of Belize City. The main temple, known as the “Green Tomb,” was constructed around 250-900 AD as part of the Maya civilization. Altun Ha is believed to have been a major ceremonial site, possibly serving as a port for Maya trading routes. The site is believed to have been a ceremonial center for the lord of the region before being turned into a formal temple complex. Excavations of the site in the 1960s revealed three plazas and multiple temple platforms, including the “Green Tomb” on the highest platform. This structure contained the burial chamber of an important Maya leader, likely either an ajaw or a k’uhul ajaw, or a high-ranking official. Inside the chamber was the iconic Jade Head of the Sun God, Kinich Ahau, the most important of the Maya gods. The head is crafted out of jade and it is the largest piece of jade in the Maya world. Today, Altun Ha is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Belize. Visitors come to explore the ruins, learn about the history of the site, and view the iconic Jade Head of Kinich Ahau. The temple complex is protected as a national monument and is a designated World Heritage Site. You must visit one of these historical places in Belize on your Belize tour

Interesting facts:

1. Altun Ha (meaning “Rockstone Water”) is the most famous and accessible Maya archeological site in Belize. 2. The most popular structure is the Temple of the Masonry Altars, which is topped with three distinctive wooden masks—each with their own unique design. 3. Altun Ha is believed to have been an important site of Maya trade and commerce from 300 A.D. to 900 A.D. 4. During the height of Altun Ha’s use, it is estimated that the city held around 10,000 people. 5. Archaeologists have found numerous artifacts at the site, including ceramics, jade, shell artifacts, and bone implements. 6. The site is home to the famous Green Tomb, which is believed to have been the burial shrine of a Maya ruler. 7. The Green Tomb is unique because it is the only tomb found at Altun Ha, and it is remarkable for containing large amounts of artifacts and unique objects such as jade. 8. Altun Ha is believed to have been abandoned around 900 A.D., but recent excavations of the site have revealed evidence of postclassic use. 9. The site is still used by the local people of the area and is popular among tourists visiting the country. Visit one of the famous monuments of Belize with your friends and family.