ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITES TAKALIK ABAJ + SAN FRANSISCO IXQUIAC

The archaeological park Takalik Abaj is one of the oldest sites of the Mayan culture, with evidence of occupation since 1000 B.C. Its importance lies in the fact that it is a key point in the transition between the Olmec and Mayan cultures. Recently (2016) declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The site has a mixture of architectural structures, such as plazas, altars and platforms. The constructions are a sample of the sophistication of Mayan techniques. You can see numerous sculptures, many of which have carvings depicting deities and important figures from Maya mythology. The stelae are particularly notable, some of which are very large and elaborate. Takalik Abaj is surrounded by lush vegetation, making it an ideal place to walk and explore as well as see influences from other Mesoamerican cultures, especially the Olmec, which provides an interesting perspective on cultural development in the region.

The archaeological site of San Francisco Ixquiac is completely unknown and is located in the village of San Francisco, Las Mercedes, Colomba Costa Cuca. There is an excellent road between TAKALIK ABAJ and COLOMBA to get there in about 40 minutes.  The site is located next to a water source and is from the late preclassic period. The villagers pay living worship to monument No. 1 and two other plain monuments that they have called grandfather and grandmother. The importance of the site lies in the fact that the villagers themselves try to preserve their past, also for the young people of the area. We receive a lecture on – Mayan Cosmovision, Mayan Spirituality of approx. 45 minutes before lunch (included) in the community in family homes. Approximately at 14.30pm we leave back to Quetzaltenango where we arrive at 16.00pm.