My Christmas Day Was in Ruins

December 25, 2024 4:15pm

I spent Christmas Day at the ruins of the Mayan city of Cahal Pech (1300 BC - 800 AD). It's located in Belize about 65 miles west of Belize City where my cruise ship is docked. Cahal Pech was discovered by archeologists in the early 20th Century. And while much has been excavated, it is known there are many structures still buried.

The Mayans were very accomplished astronomers. They had precise solar and lunar calendars. The three central pyramids at Cahal Pech formed a triangle that perfectly aligned with the Sun during both equinoxes (at the center) and with both solstices (at the corners of the flanking pyramids) when observed from the temple across the plaza.

Unlike most Mayan ruins, it is permissible to climb the pyramids at Cahal Pech, so I did. I climbed the equinox pyramid and to the top of the pyramid where humans were sacrificed to the gods. No sacrifices occurred while I was present.

Today's weather in Belize is perfect. But my tour still ended up in ruins... which is what I wanted. Belize Navidad!