Xunantunich, Archaeological site in San Jose Succotz, Belize.
Xunantunich is an archaeological site in San Jose Succotz composed of six plazas surrounded by various structures, with the main pyramid rising about 135 feet above the plaza level. The plaza arrangement shows typical features of a Maya center with altars, smaller pyramids, and residential areas organized in ascending elevation.
The center emerged between 600 and 900 AD as an important ceremonial place and served as a political hub for the Maya, closely connected to the Naranjo kingdom. The site flourished during this period before eventually being abandoned, leaving behind the structures visible today.
The name Xunantunich comes from the Mayan language, meaning Stone Woman, inspired by a figure that people reportedly saw near the main pyramid in the 1800s. This naming tradition shows how local communities connect to the site and tell its story.
To reach the site, visitors must use a hand-cranked ferry across the Mopan River, which operates throughout the day. The crossing is straightforward and becomes part of the visit itself before reaching the entrance area.
The eastern and western sides of the main pyramid display large stucco carvings with astronomical symbols, including representations of the sun god and Venus. These reliefs reveal how the Maya integrated cosmic knowledge into their architectural designs.
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