one of the main pyramids in Tikal
Tikal, in the north of Guatemala, is beyond doubt one of the most impressive Maya sites in entire Central America. No less than five huge pramids, up to 60 meters high reach above the jungle to provide a magnificent view over the countryside, and over the other temples of the complex. The oldest buildings probably date from around 500 BC, its so far unexplained decline came around 900 AD, not long after the tallest pyramids had been constructed. They remained hidden until their rediscovery in 1884, but the first clearing and reconstruction only started in the 1950s.
By now it has become the most preeminent of tourist sites in Guatemala, and rightfully so. One could easily spend a day or two, wandering the site, climbing the pyramids but also getting lost in between the many smaller temples, or better even, among the many stone heaps that represent not-yet-uncovered buildings. As one of my old guidebooks says: ‘Tikal is certain to exhaust you before you exhaust it’.
(2002)
complex temple structure, the so-called north acropolis
a pyramidal peak as bird’s resting place
well-maintained stairs
another structure
Tikal, too, has its share of stelae
one of the plazas
you can climb them pyramids!
although not every one is equally easy
one of the main buildings, not sure which one, from the back
to show how steep some of those pyramids are
stairs and trees
they tower high above the jungle
or just to the top of the canopy
prettiest in the late sunlight
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I have wonderful memories of Tikal!
Very beautiful!!
Ha Ha, dat geloof ik graag Thea!!