Altun Ha, Mayan Ruins in Belize

I was working for the cruise lines, traveling to Mexico each week when I became interested in the Mayan culture.  In addition to the San Gervasio ruins in Cozumel, I was even more curious about the Mayans once I had visited the archaeological site of Tulum. I couldn’t wait to explore more of these ancient ruins throughout Central America.

My travels would take me to several countries where I could study the Mayan people.  Belize was one of my favorite experiences because the archaeological sites had not yet been fully excavated.  At every opportunity I could find, I was visiting some of these amazing villages to gain more insight to their religious practices and everyday lives.

The Mayan ruins of Altun Ha are located north of Belize City.  A popular excursion for visitors to the country, it was one that our cruise line offered for our passengers and I was able to book the trip within a month of joining the ship.

We boarded a bus early in the morning for a short ride to the jungle.   Once we reached the site, there was a path that led through the lush trees and tropical ground cover.  We learned from our guide that it had recently been discovered in the 1960s and was an active archaeological site.

The major cruilse lines were not yet sailing to Belize during my initial visit.  With such a small number of tourists, it felt as though we were embarking on our own architectural expedition in search of buried treasure.   Overgrown brush and trees encroached the walkway yet we pushed forward  eventually reached a clearing in the jungle.  Here, we were met by the spectacular site of Altun Ha.

It was love at first sight as the view of the ruins’ largest structure stood ahead of us, standing over 50 feet tall.  Named the “Temple of the Masonry Alters”, it was the central location for the Mayan’s rituals and celebrations and considered the most important of all temples.  Altun Ha means “Rockstone Water,” and could possibly refer to the nearby cistern.  According to the Belize Institute of Archaeology, it is the most visited of all Mayan sites in the country of  Belize.

The temple was known as the Sun God’s Tomb.  At its discovery, there was found the skeletal remains of an elderly male surrounded by priceless offerings to include ceramic bowls, Jade jewelry, pyrite and hematite artifacts.   The most significant find was that of a head carved from jade which had been placed on the pelvis of his body.  The placement of the jade artifact, weighing nearly 10 pounds, signifies that the man may have been a Mayan chief or high priest.  The Jade Head had a bird-beak carved into its face, which was commonly associated with Kinich Ahua, the Sun God.

On the exterior of the temple, there were carvings beside the set of stairs that led to the top of the ruins.  Above the base of the temple, to the right, was a face identified as the Jester God, similar to the Jade Head found by archaeologists, Dr. David Pendergast in 1968.

It is estimated that the Mayans occupied Altun Ha from around 900 BC to 1000 AD.  Most of the information about the archaeological site comes from AD 400 to AD 900 when the city was at its peak. 

Evidence that the Mayans had a rich culture of mathematics, astrology and social rituals was found by archaeologists.  By the time excavations of the site came to a close in the early 1970s, there were several artifacts that suggest that Altun Ha was a center of trade and a very prosperous city at one time.

Altun Ha is a spectacular attraction for visitors who are interested in the Mayan culture.  Setting up an excursion with a local tour guide is highly recommended as they can provide an in-depth overview of this fabulous archaeological site.

So if you have some time after your exploration of the ruins, find a local restaurant, kick back and order the local Belikin beer.  You may recognize the structure on the label as the Temple of the Masonry Alters of Altun Ha.

Are you fascinated with Mayan culture?  What archaeological sites have you visited in Central America?  I would love to hear your recommendations for my next Mayan adventure if you would kindly leave a message in the comments section below!  Many thanks for reading about my visit to Altun Ha and Happy Travels!

What to See and What to Do: 

Altun Ha Mayan Ruins:  I would suggest contacting a local tour guide for this trip who will provide transportation as well as a guide to walk you through the site.

Belize Exotic Adventures or Belize Fun Tours

Where to Stay:

Chateau de Pradines
Rock, Stone Pond, Belize
Telephone:  501 623 8656

Where to Eat:

Mayan Crystal Skull Mampi Diner
Rock Stone Pond, Belize
Telephone:  501 600 344

What to Eat: 

• Ceviche is a seafood dish made from raw fish cooked by the use of citrus juice.
• Papusas are a popular street food also known as stuffed corn pancakes.  Usually comes with hot sauce and a side of coleslaw.
• Tamales are a traditional Mayan food and wrapped in plantain leaves instead of corn husks
• Rice and Beans:  made in coconut milk and pinto beans
• Conch Fritters:  Conch is a staple in Belize and this is their most popular appetizer
• Chimole is a Creole stew made from local spices such as garlic, cumin and oregano.
• Seafood which includes white fish, shrimp and lobster

What to Read: 

• Ping Wing Juk Mo, by various writers
• Maya Cities and Sacred Caves:  A Guide to the Maya Sites in Belize, by Dr. Jaime Awe
• Tropical Nature by Adrian Forsyth
• Maya Art and Architecture by Mary Ellen Miller

Photo Guide for Belize: 

• Baron Bliss Lighthouse is located at the mouth of Haulover Creek in Belize City
• Barrier Reef
• Beaches
• Belize and Orange Walk Clock Tower
• Belize Sign
• Corozal Bay and its teal waters
• Hawkesworth Bridge in San Ignacio
• Hummingbird Highway connects Western Belize and the South
• Mayan Temples
• Mountain Pine Ridge which is the home to 1000 foot falls, Rio On Pools, Big Rock Falls, and Caracol
• San Ignacio Murals‘ colorful artwork
• Tropic Air flights for amazing views of Belize’s Barrier Reef.

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