Altun Ha is the most extensively-excavated Maya site in Belize. The core site includes thirteen structures clustered within two Classic period plazas. Entering the site you approach Plaza A, which is enclosed by large temples on all four sides.

Altun Ha was derived as ‘water of the rock’, basks in the historic glory of being the most discovered Mayan site in Belize and the principal ceremonial centre and trading point in the area during that epoch, as indicated by the discovery of large quantities of jade and obsidian in the 60s and 70s.

Two main plazas surrounded by imposing temples make up the magnificent site. The Temple of the Masonry Altars, Altun Ha’s largest temple, is believed to have been the focal point of the community’s religious customs. The altar at the top of the stairway holds several tombs where it is thought the bodies of Altun Ha’s highest priests were placed. Furthermore, the largest carved jade object to have been excavated on Mayan territory was found in Altun Ha – a representation of the Sun God Kinich Ahan, measuring six inches in height and weighing almost ten pounds.

Did you know? That Altun Ha was an important trading and religious ceremonial center. Evolution of the temples at Altun Ha continued until about 1,000 AD. A magnificent tomb was discovered beneath The Temple of the Green Tomb. Dating from 550 AD, this find yielded a total of thee hundred pieces, including jade, jewelry, stingray spines, skin flints and the remains of a Maya Book.

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