7 most fascinating Mayan ruins in Guatemala

Guatemala has an amazing past, and we can see it through the remains of the Mayan cities that once dominated the country. The Mayans were one of the first most important civilizations and their technology will amaze you even today, there are a diversity of impressive Mayan ruins that you should definitely know.

El Ceibal

Surrounded by rainforest in the Petén region, El Ceibal is known for the exceptional works of art and hieroglyphics that the Mayans carved on stelae made of hard limestone. The art is detailed and considered beautiful, which gives El Ceibal the nickname "Galería de Arte Maya". In addition to the stelae, they can be found carved on stairs and altars.

Topoxte

Topoxte stands out from the other Mayan ruins in Guatemala because it is spread over five islands located in Lake Yaxha in Petén. This site is said to have been inhabited by dwarf people, as the size of the structures is extremely low for one person of average height. Without a doubt one of the most intriguing ruins in the country.

Zaculeu

The ruins of Zaculeu, a capital of the Mam Mayans, are astonishingly impressive. Zaculeu was both a religious center and a fortress. The Mam built their pyramids, temples, palaces, and other buildings around plazas. Located near Huehuetenango, Zaculeu is still used as a ceremonial site today.

Nakum

Nakum is a good place to see archaeologists at work, as excavations are underway in what is the Mayan's largest research project. In recent years, jade artifacts have been found at Nakum. Discoveries so far also include a 44-room palace, a lofty acropolis with great views of other important buildings, stelae, and a central plaza.

Iximché

The Iximché ruins are impressive. They include palaces, pyramids, temples where human sacrifices were performed, and a couple of ball courts. Some Mayan ceremonies and rituals are still held here today. One of the most interesting destinations to discover.

Yaxha

The first Mayans built Yaxha on a ridge overlooking a lake with the same name; Yaxha translates to blue-green water in the Mayan language. It is located in the Petén region near the border with Belize. Surrounded by subtropical forests that are part of a nature reserve, Yaxha is a picturesque place

Tikal

Located in the rainforest of the Petén province, Tikal is the most famous of the Mayan ruins in Guatemala and, therefore, the most visited. The site is impressive, with impressive temples and palaces, as well as ceremonial platforms and remains of houses. Climbing to the top of one of these temples offers a great experience with beautiful panoramic views from the treetops.