Takalik Maya Lodge

For more than two millenniums, the ancient metropolis of Tak'alik Ab'aj played a strong role in ancient Mayan history. The ancient city of the fertile region in the southwestern coast of Guatemala maintained a long occupation. It corresponds to mid to Late Pre Classical Period (800BC to 900 AD), one of the longest reported in the Mayan world. It is believed that, because of its excellent location, this city had an important role in the commerce of the region. It is located in the natural route that connects the coast with the highlands. Here you can find yourself in an important zone for the production of the valuable cacao.

One of the most interesting characteristics to observe in this magical place may be that it is the cradle of the Mayan civilization, which presents evidence of influences that are Olmeca, Maya, and Barrigon, as well as the local style of monuments and structures. The city sits on nine natural terraces (6.5 Km2), but actually only a portion of this constitutes the National Archeological Park.

Up to this date, they have found more than 70 major buildings, 204 sculpted monuments, and 3 jade masks, which all tell us of the majestic culture of this ancient population. Recently, the grave was found of one of the last governors of Tak'alik Ab'aj. It is believed that this grave was arranged in alignment with the Constellation Draco and presented with one of the greatest offerings, more than 200 vessels and artifacts. The archeological investigations still continue, because they still do not believe that they have found all the riches of the city and its ancient population. Actually, the location is a ceremonial site of great importance for the population. Here, the people continue to solicit blessings for their crops, families and important dates, like the Mayan New Year.