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BEAUTIFUL RUINS—THE MAYAN CIVILIZATION IN BELIZE

If you're itching to try diving, kayaking, spelunking, and mountain climbing in Belize, wait till you hear this—there's more. Not only is this country blessed with lush tropical jungles and a wealth of marine life; there is another rare treasure that lies within its boundaries, waiting to be explored by the adventure seeker. These are the Mayan ruins.

What's so interesting about some crumbling old buildings, you say? The Mayan ruins are more than just that—they are ancient testaments to the enduring culture of the Maya.

One of the oldest in Central America, the Mayan civilization was dynamic, with advancements in mathematics, art, and astronomy. They are credited with the discovery and use of the value 0, the creation of an astoundingly accurate cosmic calendar, and the discovery of chocolate.

During the Classic Period (250 A.D. to 900 A.D.), Belize became the heart of the Mayan civilization. Unlike the Aztecs who were united under one empire, the Maya lived in groups and tribes scattered throughout Central America, bound by cultural, religious, and political ties. Since their kings were thought to be descendants from gods, they also functioned as priests, performing rituals and ceremonies.

The Maya were also spectacular builders. Their astounding temples and palaces that still stand to this day in 600 different sites in Belize alone, are proof that they were indeed one of the most advanced civilizations in the world at the time.

Some of the more important sites in Belize are in Althun Ha, Caracol, Cerros, Chechem Ha Cave, Cuello, La Milpa, and El Pilar. Before 1973, it was thought that the earliest Mayan occupation started at 1500 B.C. But it was in Cuello that scientists discovered that the Maya had in fact migrated into Belize as early as 2600 B.C., and who knows, maybe even earlier?

So when you finally go on a dream vacation in Belize, don't forget to visit the Mayan ruins after you snorkel and hike. These gigantic, mystical structures are a sight to behold and are an important part of Belizean history.

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