Altun Ha, Maya Site

Altun Ha’s Most Important Archaeological Find Was a Jade Head of the Sun God Kinich Ahau

In 1968, archaeologist David Pendergast excavated the largest jade Maya artefact ever found in Belize: a 9.75-pound head of the Maya sun god Kinich Ahau, found in the Temple of the Masonry Altar. The head is now in a bank vault in Belize City. It appears on the Belikin beer label. You can see a replica at the site. The original head – carved around 600 CE, found with other jade pieces that may have been a complete body – represents the quality of craftsmanship and the religious significance of what was built at Altun Ha during the Classic Period.

Altun Ha (“Stone Water” in the local Mopan Maya language) is an ancient Maya city about 48 kilometres north of Belize City, accessible in approximately one hour by road. It was a significant ceremonial and trade centre during the Classic Period (approximately 200 to 900 CE), with extensive evidence of trade networks reaching distant Maya cities.

The Site

The Temple of the Masonry Altar (Structure B-4) stands about 16 metres tall and is the most recognisable structure. The climb to the top gives views over the surrounding jungle. The intricate stonework shows sophisticated engineering; archaeologists have found jade artefacts, pottery, and bone implements inside.

Plaza A has well-preserved stelae (stone monuments) with Maya glyphs depicting rulers and rituals. The site is reasonably compact and can be covered in two to three hours.

Entry is approximately BZD 10 to 15 (USD 5 to 8). No food or drink is available at the site; bring water and pack a lunch. Guides are available at the entrance.

Practical Notes

From Belize City, drive north on the Northern Highway to the Maskall turnoff, then take the unpaved road to the site. Tours run from Belize City and from Ambergris Caye (combined with other north Belize sites). The site is typically combined with the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary (for bird watching) or Lamanai (a larger Maya site accessible by boat on the New River) for a full-day itinerary.

Cave tubing on the Caves Branch River and the Blue Hole (Great Blue Hole) diving are the other major Belize natural attractions that can be combined with a visit to Altun Ha on a multi-day Belize itinerary.