Overview:

Barton Creek Cave Archaeological Site In Belize is an important archaeological site located near Barton Creek in western Belize. The site was first surveyed by archaeologists in the mid 1980s and has since provided a significant amount of insight into the ancient Maya civilization that occupied the area. The cave itself is actually an artificial reservoir constructed by the Maya, probably to store water in times of drought. Inside the cave, there are significant archaeological artifacts, including ceramics, stonework, jade relief pieces, and carved monuments. While the artifacts shed insight into Maya beliefs and practices, the ring of ancient terraces surrounding the cave also displays evidence of early Maya farming and settlement. This is a popular touristic site, with guided tours being offered by knowledgeable guides as well as self-guided exploration of the surrounding terraces. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Belize
Prominent Features:

• The Barton Creek Cave Archaeological Site is one of the most important and prominent Maya sites in Belize. • It consists of two large limestone caves on the banks of the Barton Creek. • The caves were once used by the ancient Maya as an outdoor temple and burial place. • The site is known for its rich collection of artifacts, including pottery, human bones, ritual objects, and stelae. • The caves also feature two tunnels that lead to the main chamber, where large macaw flight chambers are located. • A few Mayan artifacts still remain in situ in the cave, including the iconic Jaguar Altar, and the Jaguar Throne, the Stucco Panel, and the Stucco Well. • The Cave is also of major importance to the contemporary Maya people, and is a frequent destination of contemporary Maya ceremonies. This national monument of Belize portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Barton Creek Cave is an archaeological site in Belize, located on the Sibun River in the foothills of the Maya Mountains. The site was investigated and excavated in the early 1980s, and was found to have been occupied intermittently since the Middle Preclassic period of the Maya civilization. It is one of the longest and most important Maya archaeological sites in Belize and was designated as a historic monument in 1996. The earliest evidence of occupation at Barton Creek Cave dates to 6000 BCE, although it is unclear if this was a temporary encampment or a more permanent settlement. However, it is likely that the cave was occupied intermittently through the Middle Preclassic period and into the Late Preclassic period. During this period, the site was a significant ritual center—evidence of this includes numerous carved figurines and jars, as well as other artifacts. In the Late Preclassic period, the site appears to have been abandoned for a period of time and then reoccupied during the Terminal Classic period. During this period, other types of artifacts have been found at the site, indicative of a more permanent settlement such as pottery, flints, and ground stone axes. It is likely that the site was abandoned again after the Terminal Classic period and not reoccupied until right before the Spanish Conquest. Today, Barton Creek Cave is an important archaeological site for the study of the Maya civilization. Its diverse range of artifacts provide insight into Maya history and culture over the millennia. It has also been the site of some of the earliest modern archaeological excavations in Belize, providing a key case study for examining Maya culture and settlement patterns. You must visit one of these historical places in Belize on your Belize tour

Interesting facts:

1. Barton Creek Cave is the longest surveyed underwater cave in Belize, stretching over three kilometres. 2. The prehistoric pottery found at the site dates back to approximately 1000 BC. 3. Artifacts from the Maya era have also been discovered here and ancient tools and pottery have been found. 4. The cave features a variety of geological features, including stalactites and stalagmites, in addition to many diverse species of flora and fauna. 5. The Barton Creek Cave is a popular tourist destination in Belize and is also a place of worship for followers of the ancient Maya religion. 6. The cave features an underground river, which is believed to be home to blind fish. 7. The Barton Creek Cave is a designated World Heritage Site, protected by UNESCO, for its cultural and archaeological significance. Visit one of the famous monuments of Belize with your friends and family.