How to Celebrate International Archeology Day in Belize
Articles and reports
30.10.2024 Belize   14
How to Celebrate International Archeology Day in Belize

The Mayan Heritage of Belize is a sought-after destination on tourist itineraries due to its archaeological wonders throughout the country. With more than a million people inhabiting this land between 250 and 900 AD, the Mayans built cities that attract archaeologists from around the world to delve into its fascinating past. Excavated sites such as Karakol, Shunantunich, Lamanai and Altun-Ha captivates travelers with its delightful glyphs, steles and other fascinating features.


Today, Mayan communities in the country have turned their cultural heritage into direct experience to teach the influence of what has been passed down from generation to generation. International Day of Archeology demonstrates the importance of preserving Mayan history with modern times and how this enhances the many Mayan experiences.


Visit a Mayan Site


No matter where you are in Belize, a visit to a Mayan archaeological site offers a immersive experience of the ancient Mayan civilization. Take a tour to Corozal District in Santa Rita, Toledo District in Nim Li Punit, or Cayo District in Cahal Pech to learn about the intricate carvings, plazas, and ball courts that tell stories about Mayan social construction. Access 501 recently released 3D scans of Mayan artifacts found at sites using photogrammetry technology. They demonstrate the technological improvements in archeology taking place in Belize at our various sites. Advances like these heighten your curiosity as you explore any of these past major Mayan cities.


Learn Mayan Hieroglyphs


Expand your knowledge of the Mayan world by studying Mayan hieroglyphs. To better understand the language of their ancestors, modern Mayans spend their time researching and rewriting glyphs to read stelae and carvings dating back thousands of years. They also use Mayan hieroglyphic writing on pottery and ceramics, which is still recognized throughout the world. You'll even have the opportunity to write your name in an epigraphy class to carve it into your own piece of clay.


Pottery Making


Take a pottery making class, to gain hands-on experience with the Mayans. In the Mayan civilization, pottery was made by hand to store food and drink from day to day. However, they were also used for ceremonial purposes such as burials and sacrifices. From temples to caves, pottery and pottery, both whole and in fragments, are still found in various places from temples to caves.


Caves


< p>Archaeology goes beyond the surface. Rather, the cave tour will intrigue you as it was known as the route to Xibalba, the Mayan underworld. Archaeologists have found skeletal remains and ceramics in caves such as Aktun-Tunichil-Muknal (ATM cave). Finding these artifacts is not just knowing that they were present in these places, but that they had deep meaning to their beliefs. So, whether you're canoeing, tubing, or cave exploring, consider this an educational exploration of the entrances to Xibalba.


Start exploring this bountiful country from north to south to celebrate International Archeology Day. From adventures in Mayan temples and caves to visiting the "Creation of the Maya Civilization" exhibition, you'll find an exciting combination of education and fun.

Source: travelbelize

Read also: Luggage storage in St. Petersburg: Convenience and safety for travelers