Nakum, Maya archaeological site in Peten Basin, Guatemala

Nakum is a Maya archaeological site on the Holmul River, divided into North and South sectors linked by the 250-metre Perigny Causeway. The South sector holds the Central and East Plazas, the Southeast Plaza with Structure U, and the Acropolis, a 180 by 150 metre platform with over 30 buildings around 12 patios. Structure A has a triadic top and forms an astronomical complex with Structure C.

The settlement originated in the Middle Preclassic period around 700 BCE and initially developed under the influence of Tikal. Later the place gained independence during the Terminal Classic period.

The site displays remnants of ceremonial spaces with stone monuments and altars that reflect the religious life of the ancient Maya. These structures tell of ritual practices and community life in a complex society.

To reach the site, visitors travel roughly 70 kilometers east from Flores to a jumping-off point and then need four-wheel drive or similar transport for the final leg. The route depends on seasonal conditions and requires good planning before visiting.

Outside Tikal, Nakum holds the largest corpus of ancient Maya script graffiti at any Classic Maya site, not merely a national second place. The Spanish sources also note it has one of the few complete temazcales, or sweat baths, in the Maya area.