ARCHAEOLOGY

 

In Campeche?s surrounding areas you can visit several archaeological zones surrounded by lowland jungle vegetation. These sites allow you to learn about the importance of the Mayan civilization.

 

Edzna ? Located 61 km (38 mi) southeast of Campeche, off Highway 180. These are among the most important Mayan ruins due to the ancient city?s advanced technological accomplishments. One of the most striking edifices is the Templo-Palacio, built on a platform that ascends five levels. It has various rooms and a construction on the top.

 

Santa Rosa Xtampak ? Located 137 km (85 mi) from Campeche, in the city of Hopelchen. This was an important political center of the Chenes, as you?ll see by its vast territorial extension and its numerous structures. The 9-hectare (22-acre) site was built on a hill that was leveled and then terraced. The buildings are of chenes, puuc and chultunes architectural styles.

 

Calakmul ? Located 210 km (130 mi) southeast of the capital, in the Peten zone. Nestled in the jungle, this area has various Mayan lowland sites. Here you can see 120 steles, which is the highest number of monoliths recorded in Mayan territory, and 6,750 structures, more than double that of Tikal. Among the most notable edifices are two acropolises, a ball court and Structure II, perhaps the largest Mayan construction.