|
|
|
|
| You are in: |
Place to Visit | Mayan Ruins | |
Chacchoben |
Chacchoben
The name Chacchoben, pronounced [CHAK•CHO•BEN], it's a Maya word meaning "Red corn". Settlement by the Maya at the site is estimated at 200 B.C., and the structures date from 700 A.D.
In 1994 the Mexican National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) excavated and restored the site, which was closed to the public until 2002.
Visitors to the site today walk a circular path that includes three excavated and restored pyramids, as well as many walls and staircases. Excavation is continuing on several mounds which are known to contain further buildings. Some structures still bear traces of the red paint with which they were originally coated, and INAH (History and Anthropology National Institute) has set up shaded areas to prevent further degradation of this pigment by the sun. Also notable at the base of the largest pyramid is a large stone slab called a stela with a Mayan hieroglyphic inscription.
It's not possible to climb the ruins. The site is surrounded by a beautiful park-like atmosphere with a lot of palms and ample shaded areas.
Chacchoben is one of the more popular ruin sites in southern Quintana Roo, with regular tourist trips from the port of Costa Maya.
|
Menù
Lodging
Home Page
