The Mystery of the Oldest Civilizations
Before the Maya rose to prominence, other ancient cultures flourished in Mesoamerica. Some of these civilizations are still shrouded in mystery, with no written records to tell us their names or stories. When you visit sites like Teotihuacan, you’re stepping into a world that predates the Maya and whose origins remain largely unknown. It’s humbling to realize how much history is still hidden beneath the earth, waiting to be uncovered.
Comparing Ancient Cities Across Borders
Teotihuacan (Mexico)
Chichen Itza (Yucatán, Mexico)
Chichen Itza is one of the most famous Maya sites, and for good reason—the main pyramid is stunning. But it’s important to know that what you see today is a careful reconstruction, restored over the past century to attract visitors. Even so, standing at the foot of El Castillo and imagining the ceremonies that once took place here is a powerful experience. The site is a testament to the Maya’s architectural skill and their understanding of astronomy and mathematics.
Caracol (Belize)
Deep in the Belizean jungle, Caracol is a breathtaking site that feels worlds away from the crowds. The pyramids here are tall and narrow, with small bases, making for a steep climb to the top. Unlike at many sites in Mexico, you can still climb these ancient structures, which makes the experience feel even more adventurous. At its peak, Caracol was one of the most important Maya cities, home to over 150,000 people. Today, the views from the top of Caana, the “Sky Palace,” are absolutely worth the effort, offering a panoramic look over the jungle and the Chiquibul Forest Reserve.
Yaxha (Guatemala)
Yaxha is a hidden gem in northern Guatemala, surrounded by rainforest and teeming with wildlife. I loved wandering the site with howler and spider monkeys calling from the trees above. It’s much less crowded than Tikal, so you can really soak in the atmosphere and imagine what life was like here centuries ago. The ruins sit beside a beautiful lagoon, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot parrots and other birds flying overhead. Climbing to the top of a pyramid for sunset, even if you’re just on a wooden terrace, is an unforgettable moment.
Ancient Cities of Central America, Same But Different
Exploring these ancient cities across Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala has given me a deeper appreciation for the Maya civilization and the cultures that came before them. Each site has its own story, its own energy, and its own mysteries. Whether you’re drawn to the monumental pyramids of Teotihuacan, the restored splendor of Chichen Itza, the jungle adventure of Caracol, or the wild beauty of Yaxha, you’ll find a piece of the past that still feels alive today.
If you want to see more, swipe through my photos and check out my blog for more stories from these incredible places. And if you visit a site I haven’t mentioned, let me know—I’m always looking for new ancient cities to explore!
