Overview:

Xunantunich is a Maya archaeological site located in western Belize, in the Cayo District. It is situated atop a ridge above the Mopan River, within sight of the Guatemala border – in the Belizean panhandle. It served as a Maya civic ceremonial center in the Late and Terminal Classic periods to the Belize Valley region. Xunantunich's name means “Maiden of the Rock” in Yucatec Maya, and, like many names given to Maya archaeological sites, is a modern name; the ancient name is currently unknown. The primary monument of the site is a pyramid structure known as "El Castillo" ("the castle"), the second- tallest structure in Belize (after the temple at Caracol). Composed of a substructure and a culminating temple, El Castillo rises 130 feet (40 meters) high and consists of nine levels. It is the best-preserved ancient Maya palace in Belize. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Belize
Prominent Features:

1. El Castillo: The tallest of the ruins, El Castillo stands at an impressive 130 feet and is visible from surrounding area. As the site's main structure, it features several archways, two staircases, and several impressive stucco friezes. 2. Temple of the Sun: One of the largest structures at the site, this temple features a large open plaza with an impressive altar at its center. 3. Masks of the Sun God: On the south wall of El Castillo, two impressive masks representing the Sun God were found. 4. Cave one: A 500-foot passage that leads to an underground chamber, Cave one is one of the most interesting features of Xunantunich. 5. Carved Stelae: Among the most photographed features, the carved stelae at Xunantunich date back to between 600-900 AD, and feature depictions of rulers and their attendants. This national monument of Belize portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Xunantunich is an ancient Mayan archaeological site located in western Belize, close to the border with Guatemala. The site was an important ceremonial center during the Classic period of Mesoamerican history (200-900 CE) and was used as the Mayan capital until around 900 CE. It is located atop a limestone ridge – known as El Castillo – which was a major ceremonial site and has many impressive structures, including several impressive pyramids and palaces. The site was first referenced by the early European colonizers, as evidenced by Xunantunich's Spanish name which translates to mean "Stone Woman". According to this tradition, the site is thought to have been home to a mysterious woman who could turn herself into stone. Xunantunich was first officially explored in the early-1900s by Alfred Maudslay and later re-explored and excavated by the Royal Ontario Museum in 1990. During these explorations, seven major pyramids were discovered, in addition to numerous other structures, such as plazas, palaces, houses, and ball courts; various artifacts and remains of sculptures were also discovered. To this day, Xunantunich is a popular tourist destination in Belize and is known not only for its fascinating archaeological significance, but also for its stunning views and dramatic setting, creating an ideal spot to observe the majestic beauty of this ancient Mayan city. You must visit one of these historical places in Belize on your Belize tour

Interesting facts:

1. Xunantunich is a Maya archaeological site located in Belize, around 80 miles west of Belize City. 2. It was occupied by the Maya from about 600-1000 AD. 3. The largest structure at Xunantunich is known as El Castillo, a pyramid temple that is 137 feet tall and stands on the southern side of the central plaza. 4. The temple is notable for its stucco frieze with its intricate Maya carving featuring kings and gods. 5. A few years ago, archaeologists discovered an intricately carved stone throne inside the building with the image of a jaguar. It is believed that this throne belonged to a ruler of Xunantunich. 6. The site owes its name to the local legends, telling about a woman in white nightgown, seen at the site after sunset, believed to be the ghost of a former ruler of the city. 7. Xunantunich is a part of the ‘’Belize River Valley Archaeological Project’’. This project is dedicated to the examination of the settlements, from Preclassic to Classic and Post-Classic periods. 8. Until recently, exciting findings including a canoe with a baby’s skeleton, decorative jades, ritual vessels, and colorful animal earthenware were unearthed at Xunantunich. 9. The structures, artifacts, and skeletons examined in Xunantunich give insight into the settlement and religious practices of the Mayans. 10. Xunantunich is open for visiting with its guided tours that explain the history of this ancient kingdom. Visit one of the famous monuments of Belize with your friends and family.