Caracol A visit to Belize's |
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Occupied as early as 1200 BC, Caracol has revealed an extensive and varied history. The true name of this ancient city, found in hieroglyphics throughout the site, has not yet been successfully deciphered. Its modern name is Spanish for "snail," the derivation of which is not entirely clear. One translation of the emblem glyph, indicates it may have been named "Place of Three Hills," but this is also uncertain. The comprehensive work done by archaeologists Diane and Arlen Chase, of the University of Central Florida, tells us that in 650 AD, a population exceeding 150,000 was occupying the epicenter of the site. [Source: D. & A. Chase: http://www.caracol.org & Belize Dept. of Archaeology]
Lately, much attention has been placed on this mighty site. As part of the Ministry of Tourism's vision for the industry, the Caracol Archaeological Reserve will be developed into an "anchor" site for Belize, to be marketed much in the way of Tikal in Guatemala, and Copan in Honduras. | |
The ruins lie deep in the heart of the
Belizean jungle, at an elevation of 1500 feet, on the Vaca Plateau in the
Cayo District. As the crow flies, Caracol is only 25 miles due south of
San Ignacio, but you'll travel 50 miles of road to access the site. Although
the ruins were first discovered by a logger in 1938, excavations did not
begin until 1950. The most intensive work has taken place since 1985, when
the Chases undertook the "Caracol Project."
