Tikal was the cradle of the pre-Columbian peoples, and one of the most powerful kingdoms of the ancient Mayan civilization. Its history began to emerge during the 17th and 18th centuries; and it is currently the most famous Mayan city around the world for having the best archaeological sites, and natural and cultural values.
The name Tikal means «Place of Voices» or «Place of Languages» in Mayan. It is located in the municipality of Flores, in the department of Petén, current territory of the Republic of Guatemala; In addition, it is part of the Tikal National Park, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1979.
The Mayans established the great city of Tikal in the middle of the mysterious and thick jungle. In the past this ancient center was the most important area for the Mayan civilization. They demonstrated in this city their political, commercial and religious leadership; however, over the centuries the vegetation advanced vertiginously, covering the impenetrable urban center in its entirety. Tikal was abandoned by its inhabitants; however, at the time of the Spanish conquest it was discovered by a group of Europeans lost in the immense jungle; and they left traces of Tikal in their writings.
In 1848 the fortification was rediscovered, and its archaeological work began to restart some 60 years later; achieving in this way to reveal all its wonders to the whole world.
Currently, Tikal offers an important archaeological heritage, and an immense ecological wealth to all its visitors.. It is lined with lush vegetation, imposing pyramids that remain in all their splendor; a fresh breeze, the green of some hills, the brown of others; in addition to a mysterious and peaceful atmosphere, conducive to adventure and enjoyment.
On the other hand, its archaeological site is part of the Tikal National Park; Y It is considered a Mayan Biosphere Reserve.; It also attracts thousands of tourists every year. Its abundant plants and animals accompany more than 285 species of protected exotic birds that live there. It is the ideal place to enjoy nature up close and delve a little deeper into the Mayan civilization.
Likewise, there are also other sites of great interest in the imposing city of Tikal. You can see the Temple of the Masks; named for the two masks that surround the central staircase. It is a funerary-ceremonial archaeological complex, which served as a monument to the wife of the Mayan ruler Hasaw Cha`an Kawil; also, the temple was used for various ritual ceremonies.
There is also the Temple of the Great Priest, it is appreciated and considered one of the best preserved of the pre-Columbian civilization; It measures approximately 60 meters high, and it is the last great construction of Tikal.
The city of Tikal is an extraordinary advance that survived and flourished through the ages. Its majestic cultural and architectural features remain unique and extraordinary throughout the ages. It is an honor to appreciate it!