MexicGo Archaeological site in Campeche, Mexico by Location: Calakmul

The ruined Maya city of Calakmul is one of the best places for quiet contemplation of the culture’s architectural legacy. Though the complex is only partially restored and a long drive south of Hwy-186 (down a signposted road midway between Escárcega and Xpujil), its location in the heart of the jungle and its sheer size make it irresistible. Probably the biggest archeological area in Meso america, it has nearly seven thousand buildings in the central area alone and more stelae and pyramids than any other site; the great pyramid here is the largest Maya construction in existence, with a base covering almost five acres. The view of the rainforest from the top is stunning, and on a clear day you can even glimpse the tip of the Danta pyramid at El Mirador in Guatemala. Arrive early (the gate to the biosphere on Hwy-186 opens at 7am) to look for wildlife such as wild turkeys, peccaries, toucans and jaguars. Even if you don’t spot anything, you’ll likely hear booming howler monkeys and raucous frogs.

During the Classic period, the city had a population of about 200,000 and was the regional capital. A sacbé (Maya road) running between Calakmul and El Mirador (another leads on to Tikal) confirms that these cities were in regular communication. Calakmul reached its zenith between 500 and 850 AD but, along with most other cities in the area, it was abandoned by about 900 AD. Excavations begun in the 1980s have so far uncovered only a fraction of the buildings, the rest being earthen mounds. Some of Calakmul’s treasures are on display in the archeological museum at Campeche, including two hauntingly beautiful jade masks. Another mask was found in a tomb in the main pyramid as recently as January 1998. At the site, ask about a huge interior stucco frieze, substantially larger and more ornate than the one at Balamkú.

As of late 2009, new regulations regarding driving into Calakmul were set to be enacted you may have to take dedicated transport from the gate, as is the situation at Bonampak.

Calakmul in Maya means "Two Mounds Adjacent" (Ca two adjacent Lak, Mul artificial mound or pyramid), a name that refers to two large structures that dominate the jungle. Importance Cultural Calakmul was discovered in the early 30 the last century, but it is up to the 80s that systematic investigations possible to discover the essence of this city as one of the most important of the Classic Maya. The most recent research has concluded that Calakmul is the most important Classic Maya and together with Tikal and Palenque city led the political organization of the highlands. The hieroglyphs studies have reported a history of wars between Calakmul and Tikal for nearly a century, which speaks of the political rivalry between these cities.A unique urban planning, large ceremonial plazas and residential complexes is observed. It is also the place where they have found a greater number of stelae in the Maya area, many of the Late Preclassic (400 BC.). These are the main subject of epigraphic and iconographic study, which has made possible the reconstruction of the political and dynastic history of this city. Calakmul has a settlement pattern was adapted to the geography of its setting, its nuclear area is represented by five architectural groups that were connected by plazas.

Services available in the area: Services Unit, sale of publications and reproductions, restrooms, parking, outdoor signage and restrictive bonds and informative.

Hours: Monday to Sunday from 8:00 to 17:00 hours.

Collection Access: $ 48.00 mn

Contact: Campeche INAH Center 01 (981) 8 16 91 11.

Lic. Irma Cantun Mata, Head of Operation Archaeological Sites.

Recommendations: Wear light clothing. In the months of June, July and August, use insect repellent. Do not bring pets. Do not leave trails to visit, not to disturb the wildlife, not collect plants or cultural materials (ceramic or lithic). Wear comfortable shoes. Note that the nearest gas stations are located 100 km away from the site.

Calakmul, Mexico