Cihuatán, Archaeological site in Aguilares, El Salvador.
Cihuatán is an archaeological site featuring pyramids, plazas, and residential complexes laid out across a large area. The ruins show remains of a major pre-Hispanic settlement with different levels and structures that reflect the daily life of its inhabitants.
The settlement grew after the Maya collapse and became a regional center between 900 and 1200. The city showed connections to Central Mexico before being suddenly abandoned around 1100 due to extensive fires.
The name comes from Nahuatl and means 'place of women', showing how the Pipil people who lived here understood the role of women in their society. You can sense this legacy when walking through the residential areas and seeing how domestic spaces were organized.
The site is open on most days, and guided tours help you understand the different areas and structures better. It is helpful to wear comfortable shoes since the terrain is uneven and requires considerable walking.
The site featured two ball courts where ceremonial games took place, holding major religious significance for the community. The sudden destruction by fire left burn marks that show how quickly the city was abandoned.
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