Overview:

is part of a larger archaeological site located in the Cayo District of Belize. It is a structure built in the Late Classic Period (AD 600–900) probably by the Maya. It is a large pyramid, about 60 feet (18.3 m) tall, with nine sculpted stelae indicating possible astronomical alignments from the Early Classic Period. Structure A-6 is located near the north edge of the plaza and is the tallest structure in the area. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Belize
Prominent Features:

1. El Castillo: The largest and most impressive temple in Xunantunich, El Castillo stands at 130 feet tall and has a total of nine levels of stairs that can be climbed to reach the top. The temple was built in the latter period of Classic period architecture, and is the tallest known structure in Belize. 2. Plaza: Adjacent to the El Castillo temple is the central plaza area. This area contains the stelae plaza which was used as a royal gathering place, and the acropolis of three large stepped platforms. 3. Temple of the Sun God: Located just south of the El Castillo temple is the Temple of the Sun God. This temple is decorated with several stucco masks and images of the sun god on the façade. 4. Ball Court: Situated at the south-west corner of the main complex is the ball court. This court was a traditional Mesoamerican sporting area for a game similar to basketball. 5. Sacbé: The north-south causeway at Xunantunich is one of the longest known in the region. This sacbé, or white road, extends for a distance of 1.5 kilometers and is a sign of the powerful Maya engineering capabilities. 6. Tombs: More than 25 tombs have been discovered in the Xunantunich area, draped around the vast plazas. The remains of both kings and members of the ruling class have been found in this area, undisturbed for centuries. This national monument of Belize portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Xunantunich Structure A-6 is a Late Classic period architectural structure located in Xunantunich, Belize. It is part of the Xunantunich Archaeological Reserve, and consists of an iconic two-roomed temple top with a stela situated between the two rooms. Initially constructed around 700 AD, A-6 was destroyed and subsequently re-built sometime during the 9th century, with the original builders likely hailing from the nearby site of Tikal, Guatemala. The archaeological reserve was constructed around A-6, and this structure has become the symbol of the site and is very iconic in Belize. It is notable for its size, being larger than many of the other temples at Xunantunich. It stands at approximately 44 feet tall and has housing and stairways located within it. It is believed that the temple was likely used as a place for religious ceremonies and for raising awareness towards the gods. Evidence from excavations in the area suggests that the structure was used as a royal residence during the Maya Classic period. This indicates that the building was likely used to showcase the wealth and power of the ruling dynasty of the time. A-6 is a significant structure because it is one of the few remaining structures in Belize that date to the Late Classic period of Mesoamerican civilizations. Its significance lies in its architecture and its unique design; its temple top is quite unique compared to other structures of this era, and its use of stelae for astrology is of particular note. It is a reminder of Belize’s rich Maya heritage and is an important archaeological site that should be preserved. You must visit one of these historical places in Belize on your Belize tour

Interesting facts:

1. Xunantunich Structure A-6 is the largest Maya temple in Belize and is 900 years old. 2. It is one of the two tallest structures in Belize, standing at 118 feet high. 3. Xunantunich Structure A-6 is believed to have had an astronomical function and the structure shows alignment to key celestial events like the Sun, the cycle of the moon, and Venus. 4. Inside the structure A-6 lies a large plaque representing the sun God, Kinich Ahau, which is considered to be the guardian spirit of the region. 5. Archeologists have found well-preserved hieroglyphic staircases and carvings in the area, revealing stories and histories of the ancient Mayan culture. 6. The structure is one of the most visited sites in Belize and opens its courtyards to visitors who get a chance to explore the area and the ruins. Visit one of the famous monuments of Belize with your friends and family.