My family and I
decided to go the extra mile and explore Belize a bit more and we were all
happy we made the decision to experience the Mayas in Belize. We were in for an
early start leaving Splash Dive Center in Placencia, by road at 6:00 am. I had
no doubt that we were on an adventurous and rewarding journey as we headed back
to 600 AD! Archeologists believe that
the temples in Xunantunich (pronounced shoo-nan-too-neech), located in the Cayo
district dates back to the early Classical Period. It is unimaginable to climb
the temples that were built so long ago; yet still remain sturdy.
However, before
getting to Xunantunich our licensed tour guide took us to visit the Blue Hole
National Park, also located in the Cayo District. I must add, the best thing
about Belize is the close proximity of the sites; it took us more or less 1.5 hours to arrive to the Blue Hole and
another 45 minutes to get us to Xunantunich. The Blue Hole is a natural 25-foot
deep pool in the middle of a cave where the singing of birds is rhythmical.
This Blue Hole is found inland and is distinct to the Great Blue Hole, found
out in the center of the Lighthouse Reef. It is said that this inland Blue Hole
was formed by the collapse of an underground limestone cave. The Blue Hole is
named for its glistening turquoise water and is used by many for a quick
refreshing swim.
After a quick
visit to the secret natural pool we were back on the road to Xunantunich. The
kids, Harry and Jim were excited to learn that in order to get to the Maya
temple we would need to cross the Mopan river using a cool, hand-cranked ferry.
This was one of the major highlights for the kids, as they got a chance to
crank the ferry themselves!
We learned that the
name Xunantunich was Maya for “maiden of the rock”, or “stone woman”. The area
has 6 major plazas surrounded by more than 25 Maya temples and palaces. The
largest of all, and also the second largest manmade structure in Belize, is
named, “El Castillo” (The Castle), standing 130 feet tall above the plaza. Our
guide explained to us that it is believed that Xunantunich was used extensively
used for ceremonies and rituals.
The best reward of
all was finally getting to the top of “The Castle”, as we stood 130 feet high,
we got the chance to enjoy the ‘jungle view’: viewing Western Belize, and into
the borders of Guatemala. It is thrilling to stand tall on a structure that
holds the secrets of the Maya Civilization. It was certainly worth taking the
tour to the Cayo district. The adventure was invigorating!
“A great way to discover the beauty
and adventure of Belize above water”
