Latin America Collection

Tikal
, El Petén National Park. This is the home of the Mayan
civilization, which was the greatest civilization in the Western Hemisphere
starting in a period some 2500 years ago. Found here are important temples,
carvings, dwellings and examples of Mayan mathematical and astronomical
knowledge. The city was mysteriously abandoned around the year 900 A.D.,
and the wild animals, birds and jungles reclaimed it for many years. From
Guatemala City, you take a 30 minute flight or 24 hour drive over bad
roads to Flores, which is close to Tikal. Lodging and guides are available
there.

Ceibal
, El Petén, first settled around 800 B.C. is often called the "Mayan
Art Gallery" because of its well preserved sculptures and pottery.

Yaxha
, El Petén, is a city that was laid out in a street network similar
to today's city blocks.

Uaxatun
, El Petén, existed longer than any other Mayan city. Its writing
system and calendar originated here.

El Mirador
, El Petén, which is located just four miles from the Mexican
border is under excavation, so special permits may be needed to explore
this site.

El Naranjo
, El Petén, contains many impressive structures such as the
hieroglyphic stairway and ball court.

Quirigua
, Izabel, contains the largest block of stone ever quarried by
the Mayas. It is made of sandstone and measures 35 feet long by 5 feet wide
and weighs some 65 tons.
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