Located in the Orange Walk District, the Lamanai Mayan site sits atop the western bluff of the New River Lagoon and is surrounded by pristine rainforest.Lamanai was occupied continuously for over 3,000 years this magnificent site
stayed lived well beyond most other Maya sites, until at least 1,650 AD.From atop its largest temples, the spectacular view of, Lamanai provides a unique insight of the Maya and the biological diversity of the tropical forest.
Lamanai features the second largest Pre-Classic structure in Belize and like other ruins; much of Lamanai was built in layers where successive populations built upon the temples of their ancestors, instead of destroying them.
Although hundreds of ruins are said to remain unexcavated in the nearby jungle, three of the most impressive temples have been renovated: the Jaguar Temple, named for its jaguar depictions; the Mask Temple, adorned by a 13-foot limestone mask of an ancient Maya king; and the High Temple, offering visitors a panoramic view from its summit.Remains of two 16th century Catholic missions are also nearby. Maya natives rebelled and burned the churches to the ground as part of a regional uprising. A make-shift Maya stelae standing in front of what remains of one church, is widely interpreted as renouncing all allegiance to Christianity.
Our Country’s protected status provides for an abundance of wildlife inside the park. Th
ere are a growing number of howler monkeys that make Lamanai their home and you will most likely see them peering down through the branches as you wander the trails. In addition, the marshland around the lagoon supports many species of water birds and wildlife, including crocodiles and Manatees. The on-site museum houses an amazing collection of impressive artifacts depicting Maya gods and animals
Maya Sites