Overview:

Lamanai High Temple is one of the largest and most spectacular Maya ruins found in Belize. This impressive structure was built on a natural limestone ridge and is one of the most complete and busiest centers of the ancient world. The site comprises the main temple, five residential complexes, and numerous small mounds. The most impressive and recognizable feature of Lamanai is the towering pyramid temple, located on the highest point of the ridge. This pyramid is estimated to have been built more than 1,300 years ago and is one of the largest structures of its type in Central America. In addition to the main pyramid, there are other smaller structures, including the Masks Temple and the Jaguar Temple. The majority of the buildings and structures at Lamanai are well-preserved and allow guests to get an up-close and personal glimpse of the past. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Belize
Prominent Features:

1. Massive size: Standing at up to a staggering 18 meters (60 feet) in height, Lamanai's High Temple is one of the largest Maya temples in Belize. 2. Intricate carvings: Topping the High Temple is its impressive roof comb, full of intricate carvings of different masks and figures. 3. Archaeological artifacts: As the High Temple was built and rebuilt over different periods in time, it has been entombed with many different archaeological artifacts, including the bodies of other sacrifices. 4. Symbolism: The High Temple is also associated with the rain god, Chaak, which has further been reinforced by its location on the banks of the New River Lagoon. 5. Scenic views: Standing atop the High Temple offers stunning views of the surrounding jungle and also the shimmering New River Lagoon below. This national monument of Belize portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Located in Orange Walk District of Belize, Lamanai High Temple is a Mesoamerican structure formerly known as part of the Maya civilization. It is believed to have been constructed in the early Classic Period of Maya history (300–500 AD). It is one of the largest, most complex temples in the region and is often referred to as a “majestic fortress temple.” The High Temple itself is located on a hilltop that is 333 feet (100m) above lake level and 1,190 feet (360m) above sea level. The High Temple is spread out over several acres and the summit of the hill can be accessed by two sets of eight staircases. The temple's main structure was built on the western side of the hilltop, facing the east, and is 12 meters tall. There is a large plaza, along with other minor structures, on the southern side of the temple's main structure. The temple's summit is decorated with a series of hieroglyphs, monuments, altars, and stelae that are dedicated to the gods such as the sun, moon, and maize god. The site itself is believed to have flourished from 300-900 AD. During its peak, Lamanai was one of the largest cities in the region, and it is believed to have been as populous as 5,000 people. During its decline, which occurred sometime between 900-1000 AD, the city was slowly abandoned, perhaps due to the changing economic and environmental conditions in the region. Despite its historical importance and age, the city’s main temple still stands today. It is one of the most impressive landmarks in all of Belize and continues to attract visitors from around the world. You must visit one of these historical places in Belize on your Belize tour

Interesting facts:

1. The ruins of Lamanai High Temple are located in northern Belize and are the oldest continuously occupied archaeological site in Central America, with excavations dating as far back as 1000 BCE. 2. It was once the largest ceremonial center in the region, with its grand temple rising at an impressive 30 meters. 3. It is believed that the name Lamanai comes from the Maya words for “submerged crocodile” due to the high concentration of crocodiles in the nearby New River Lagoon. 4. The temple is located amongst thick jungle, and there are often troops of howler monkeys living on its grounds. 5. There is an impressive stucco mask of the sun god Kinich Ahau crowning its summit. 6. Parts of the temple date back to AD 800, although it was added to and remodeled over time with the central structure from AD 1000 still standing. 7. An impressive variety of pottery, stone tools, and artifacts have been excavated from the temple grounds throughout the years. Visit one of the famous monuments of Belize with your friends and family.