Pronounced shu-nan-tu-nich, it was a major ceremonial center across the Mopan River. Xunantunich is located in the Maya village of San Jose Succotz, about 40 minutes by car from Crystal Paradise. A hand-cranked ferry takes you across the Mopan River followed by a mile drive uphill to the archaeological site.
The partially-excavated and largest pyramid, El Castillo, stands at 130 plus feet above the main plaza floor, offering an impressive view of Belize’s Cayo District and nearby Guatemala. El Castillo is known for its frieze, a banded stucco decoration that at one time extended around the entire structure.
An impressive Belize museum displays a three-dimensional model of the entire site and depicts the evolution of the Maya civilization.
