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Altun Ha Belize
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| Altun Ha Belize, or water of the rock is named after the nearby town, Rockstone Pond, by the Maya people. We found it about 30 miles from Belize City along the bumpy, semi-paved Old Northern Highway that runs parallel to the east coast. We were not coming from Belize City but from the Baboon Sanctuary at Bermudian Landing which is roughly the same distance. |
Tuesday 30th Sept. 1997
After having a strange breakfast of bread pudding and coffee, (the bread pudding reminded me of dad’s cooking) we said our goodbyes to our new friends who kindly laden us with oranges from the site and some home made cashew nut wine to take home.
We left quite late at 10 am and set off on the journey to Altun Ha. It was short and pleasant although a rough ride, and we found our way quite easily.
The guide book said Altun Ha Belize, was a small site. When we arrived, we were stunned by it’s many temples. There are 13 in all with 2 plazas. Most of these temples had yet to be uncovered. We took this trip back in 1997, so I look forward to seeing the site again and how much has been revealed. The video speaks for itself!>>>>>It was after 900 AD that the classic Maya civilization declined, the temples were vacated, and slowly the jungle crept up over them and reclaimed the space.
The famous Jade Head of Kinich Ahau the Sun God was found here! We didn’t get to see it there because it lies in a bank vault in Belize City. At about 6 inches tall and weighing 10lbs, it is one of the best and largest Maya jade artefacts found in Belize. Apparently, Maya Royals were buried along with jade or other green gemstones. It is said that the green represents moisture and breath condensed. The common thought is that they believed these stones would assure an afterlife.
When we were sitting and enjoying the view from the top of a temple, we talked about the life of the ancient Maya and the thought of human sacrifices that were carried out on the top of some Maya Temples made us soooo glad that we were living in the 19 Century. The whole place just shimmered in silence as people roamed the ruins in the 90o heat. It was still with an eerie atmosphere and only the sound of buzzing insects could be heard.
If you get the chance, make it a goal to visit Altun Ha Belize. You won’t be disappointed!
For those following the trail of My Belize Trip, follow the jeep, taking you to Orange Walk
Gem
Enjoy your Trip to Altun Ha Belize! - To Home Page
