Xunantunich

Our trip to Belize wouldn't have been complete without touring the famed Xunantunich ruins! After gearing up with sunscreen and cooling towels, we began our trek into the past. The lengthy drive there was filled with many fun conversations, including a detailed explanation of the local history and culture of the areas we passed, provided to us by our exceptional tour guide Ivar. A hand cranked ferry took us across the river to reach the reserve, and our day had officially begun! 


One of the taller structures we visited was the center of religious and administrative work, where announcements could be heard by all smaller buildings nearby. We climbed up the flights of stone stairs, ascending higher and higher, like many priests and other important officials would have back when they were first built. From the top you can see several smaller Mayan structures, beautiful scenery, and the Guatemala border.


The structures we visited next were filled with several hidden gems that our tour guide expertly explained and guided us through. It was really nice to hear all of the history behind the site, especially since I grew up fascinated with Mayan culture. It was truly a full circle moment to be standing inside structures I thought I’d only ever get to read about as a child.


The hieroglyphics were highly detailed, in execution and meaning. Some were praises to the gods of their time (first below), while others depicted victories in battles long past (second below).



Some of the more recent excavations were done with LIDAR, a pulsed laser used to measure and map possible buried structures. During our coding program we had a guest speaker discuss those very excavations that he was a part of, an energetic presentation that both mentors and students enjoyed.


Of course the trip wouldn't be complete without a picture of all of us holding an MSU flag! So we gave our legs a short break to snap a few pics and drink some much needed water. We then headed down, making a brief stop for some lunch and local shopping at the nearby stands. With that we ended the day's adventure, and headed back. 

- Sarah
Location: 3VR5+292, Xunantunich Access Rd, San Jose Succotz, Belize

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