1. Xunantunich is an ancient Mayan archaeological site located in Belize City, Belize. The name Xunantunich means \"Stone Woman\" in the Yucatec Maya language. This name is believed to be derived from a local legend of a ghostly woman who appeared in the area.
The site is known for its impressive main pyramid, known as El Castillo, which stands at approximately 130 feet tall and offers panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and the bordering country of Guatemala. El Castillo is also famous for its intricate carvings and stucco friezes, depicting Mayan gods and rulers.
Xunantunich was a significant ceremonial center during the Classic Period of Mayan civilization, between the 7th and 10th centuries AD. The site was abandoned around the 10th century and was later rediscovered and partially excavated in the 19th century.
2. The working hours of Xunantunich vary depending on the season. During the dry season from November to May, the site is open from 8:00 am to 4:30 pm. During the wet season from June to October, the site is open from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. It is recommended to check the official website or contact the Belize Institute of Archaeology for the most up-to-date information on opening hours. Unfortunately, there is no available phone number provided.
3. To enter Xunantunich, visitors must purchase an admission ticket. As of October 2021, the admission fee for foreigners is $10 USD per person. It is recommended to bring exact change in local currency, Belizean Dollars (BZD), as foreign currency may not be accepted.
To reach Xunantunich, visitors can take a ferry across the Mopan River, a short distance from the site. The ferry operates during the site’s opening hours and costs a small fee. Alternatively, visitors can take a guided tour or hire a private vehicle to drive to the site. Xunantunich is located approximately 80 miles west of Belize City, and the journey takes about 2 hours by road.
