Overview:

Xunantunich Lower Temple is one of the earliest Maya temples in Belize. It stands at the southern end of Xunantunich. It dates back to the Late Classic Period (c. 600-900 AD) and was probably part of the elite precinct. The facade of the temple is adorned with sculpted images of Chaac, the rain god. It is one of the earliest examples of artisanship made in the area, hinting at a possible royal presence among the Maya in the region. Today, the temple serves as a pilgrimage site for many pilgrims who believe it to hold mystical power. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Belize
Prominent Features:

1. A massive central staircase leads to the entrance of the temple, surrounded by five upper-level structures. 2. The structure reaches a height of 127 feet, making it the tallest building in Belize at the time of its construction. 3. Many of the buildings feature intricately carved stucco facades. 4. Carved depictions of figures like jaguars and serpents adorn the walls. 5. An extensive network of plazas, staircases, and terraces the stretch of the base of the temple. 6. The main platform and entrance are shaded by a large thatched palm roof, adorned with mural paintings. 7. A series of impressive altars are placed prominently throughout the temple. 8. The breathtaking view of the surrounding jungle from the upper level offers a unique perspective of the ancient site. This national monument of Belize portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Xunantunich Lower Temple is a pre-Columbian Maya ruin in Belize. It is located in the western Belizean district of Cayo. Archaeologists believe the temple was built by the Maya between 900 and 1200 AD. It is the earliest known temple on the site, and is believed to have been used for funerary and calendrical rites. The Xunantunich Lower Temple complex consists of four plazas, three of which have temples overlooking them. The temple itself is constructed from limestone and other materials. It is composed of four stepped structures with rich stucco decoration. It is thought to have been used by the elite of the Maya to honor the gods. The archeological site was discovered in 1936 by Edward John Thomson, a British archaeologist. The site has been extensively studied since then and has been the site of several excavations. The Xunantunich Lower Temple is a popular tourist attraction in Belize. The complex is open to the public and visitors can climb the temple structures for a view of the surrounding area. You must visit one of these historical places in Belize on your Belize tour

Interesting facts:

1. Xunantunich Lower Temple was originally constructed around 600 A.D. 2. Xunantunich Lower Temple is the oldest structure on the site and is the earliest remaining building on the site. 3. Xunantunich Lower Temple is one of the few ceremonial buildings still standing today in the Mayan Classic period 4. Xunantunich Lower Temple is situated near the Mopan River and is part of the larger Xunantunich archaeological site. 5. The entrance of the Xunantunich Lower Temple is decorated with hieroglyphs that describe the life and deeds of the ruler who commissioned the construction of the temple. 6. Just below the hieroglyphs is a stucco frieze where two feathered serpents stand side by side with their heads facing the east. 7. Offering deposits of pottery, jade and other materials have been found inside the Xunantunich Lower Temple. 8. The platform at the base of the Xunantunich Lower temple contains three stelae, or stone carved tablets, dating back to 800-900 A.D., each one dedicated to a different ruler of the city. Visit one of the famous monuments of Belize with your friends and family.