When you visit the Mayan Ruins in Guatemala, you can discover the great civilizations that once lorded over the region between 700 BC to 900 BC. The Mayans were a proud, strong people known for their arts, military power, and scientific achievements. Their monuments record how they shaped a dynasty, conquered their enemies, and formed alliances with surrounding cultures (or crushed them to oblivion).
Archaeologists believe that over 3,000 major monuments and buildings once stood within the Mayan boundaries, though most of them, unfortunately, have fallen into disrepair. Luckily, there are many monuments that have been found in relatively good condition, and efforts have been made by both the Guatemalan people and the international scientific community to preserve and reconstruct the ruins. Due to these efforts, the world is beginning to discover the great achievements of the Mayans, who had been forgotten for centuries as their secrets lay hidden in the Guatemalan jungles.
The most prominent ruins can be found in the Tikal area, located just across Copan’s Honduran border (you can, however, find smaller ruins in other areas in Guatemala). From the materials used, archaeologists believe that the rulers had great stones and wood transported down the south rivers, where they were carved into the sculptures that were later excavated in this area. This is just one indication of the Mayan rulers’ great wealth and intricate system of trade.
You should visit the Great Plaza, Tikal’s most impressive structure. You will see the stelae, the sculptured altars, and many religious builidings and residential palaces. The two temples (one of them called the Temple of the Jaguar) stand at its sides, towering at 150 feet. The tomb of Ah Cacao lies in in the temple.
Another must-see is Copan, just 13 kilometers away from the Honduras border, and considered to be one of the greatest Mayan achievements. The royal sculptures reveal the craftsmanship and artistic skill of the Mayan people. Some attractions include the Hieroglyphic Stairway, famous for having the longest continuous glyphic text includes the longest single glyphic text, which records the history of the first 15 rulers.,
You should also see Quirigua. While it is not as imposing as the Grand Plaza (in fact it is one of the smallest Mayan cities) but the monuments are incredible and well preserved. This includes temples, eleven large stelae, and several rock sculptures representing key figures from the civilization’s mythology. The Mayans had a very well-developed culture. While not as famous as the Greek and Roman civilization, they had a rich oral tradition that included legends of great warriors and their battles with monsters and demons.
Another interesting site is Aguateca, an archaeological site in the Peten region, surrounded by the lush forests of the Pasion River. While known more for its beautiful waterways and landscapes, it does merit a visit. The waterways also indicate the Mayan’s skill in architecture and mathematics, as they used the natural landscape to their advantage, and worked “with” the surroundings to create monuments that enhanced rather than destroyed the countryside.