- Address: Orange Walk, Belize;
- Working hours: 24 hours;
- Phone: +501 668-4889;
- Website: belizejungletrek.com.
On the shores of the Caribbean Sea, Belize has stretched its possessions, full of many historical sights . One of the ancient architectural monuments is the ruins left from the city of Lamanai.
Lamanay - history of the city
The first excavations of the city of Lamanay, Belize were started in 1974. According to many archaeologists who have long studied the characteristics of this ancient city, the Maya tribe of Maya existed in it already in 1500 BC. The excavations made proved that the historical city survived the socio-demographic revolution. But, despite all the turmoil, the settlement did not emptied and people continued to live there until the beginning of the Spanish occupation, which occurred in the 16th century. In those days, when the city was considered a major historical center, it had about 20,000 inhabitants.
A few years after the arrival of the Spaniards in the city, the Maya people filled the city of Lamanai, but because of the cruel treatment, the local people left their lands. Many times the Mayans tried to return to their native lands, in order that they cultivate the land. Forced return of the settlement helped re-populate Lamanai and give him a second life. After the return of the inhabitants to the city, they were baptized, which led to the construction of churches in the sacred places of the Mayan settlements. But, despite the restoration of the ancient city, there were insurrections that led to its destruction, the city was burned and abandoned.
Than Lamanay is interesting for tourists?
Tourists who have found themselves in these places will be able to plunge into the long-forgotten history of Mayan settlements, learn how they lived, what was sacred to them, and also admire the unforgettable natural beauty of this wonderful city. Travelers will be able to see such attractions:
- ancient ruins have been found in real wild jungles, where to this day live exotic birds, monkey-howlers and other rare representatives of fauna;
- a picturesque discovery for many tourists will be the ruins of ancient temples, which seem to grow out of the thick of the jungle. For example, this is the Mask temple , where you can see the bas-relief of a huge head carved from stone;
- scientists have been found fascinating remains of Spanish churches, under one of which was found a secret sanctuary in which there were many ceramic products.
How to get to the city of Lamanay?
To get to Lamanay, Belize is possible from the city of Orange Walk , taking advantage of a cruise excursion.