CAHAL PECH

Cahal Pech (place of ticks)

      This site is located on the southern outskirts of San Ignacio in the upper Belize Valley Region of the Cayo District.

      During the Classic period, Cahal Pech and its sustaining area may have encompassed approximately 10 square miles. The site core consists of 34 large structures (Many of these structures have been identified as elite residences, indicating that Cahal Pech may have served mainly as a royal compound), 7 courtyards or plazas, 2 ball courts, and an altar.

      Data recovered at the site suggests that settlers began occupation sometime between 1200-1000B.C.

      The tallest temple (structure A1) stands 77 feet tall.

      The site is within a beautiful jungle-type setting giving visitors the opportunity to view many colorful and exotic birds and tropical plants.