Zoomorfo P at Quirigua

The Zoomorphs of Quirigua

Weighing as much as 20 tuns and encoded with mystery, the zoomorphs of Quirigua are amongst the most profound and amazing pieces of art ever produced by the Maya.

The Stelae of Quirigua

The stelae at Quirigua are an outstanding example of Mayan art and include Stela E which is the largest monolithic monument ever erected in Mesoamerica.

Zoomorfo B at Quirigua

Quiriguá: A Brief History

For much of its history, Quirigua was little more than a trading outpost, designed to control trade along the Motagua River, but then Cauac Sky came to power…

Rear South Corner of Acropolis at Quirigua

Quiriguá: The Acropolis

The Acropolis at Quirigua may be small, but it lies at the heart of Quirigua’s development from a small trading outpost to a powerful independent city that ended up living in fear…

Zoomorfo G at Quirigua

Quirigua: Zoomorph G

The beastly Zoomorph G (Monument 7) is dedicated to Quiriguá’s greatest ruler, Cauac Sky (K’ak’ Tiliw Chan Yopaat) who reigned for over 60 years…

Altar M (Monument 13) at Quirigua

Quiriguá: Altar M

Feline-faced Monument 13, also known as Altar M, curiously marks the beginning of Quiriguá’s battle for independence thanks to the inclusion of a brand new emblem…

Quirigua, Structure 1B-5

Quiriguá

Quirigua was little more than a trading outpost until a ruler named Cauak Sky claimed independence and built some of the most amazing monuments ever built by the Maya.

View of Templo I at Tikal from the main plaza

Tikal: A Brief History

Tikal was the most powerful city in the Mayan territories during the Classic Period, but its monuments might suggest that Teotihuacan was inspiration and power behind its success…

North Acropolis at Tikal

Tikal: Templo 5D-33

Temple 5D-33 was controversially ripped down in the ’60s, but revealed an early structure that may link it to Teotihuacan…

Tikal

Tikal

Hidden in the rainforests of Guatemala, Tikal was once at the heart of the Mayan Civilisation. Today it is a magical destination for both its natural environment and amazing ruins.