The first archaeological records in Cahal Pech date from 1,200 B.C.E., when the city seems to have been used mostly as a coastal trading post. The site began to grow substantially around 300 B.C.E. and is estimated to have had a population of up to 15,000 people. Most of the important structures on the site date from a 600-year period Mayanists call the "Classic" era -- between 300 C.E. to 900 C.E. -- making it a good example of the distinctive Mayan architecture of the time. For still unknown reasons -- like many important Mayan cities in the area -- the site was abandoned between 850 and 900 C.E.
The city of Cahal Pech sits at the top of a steep, forested hill on the banks of the Macal river, offering a stunning panoramic view of the valley below and the Mayan Mountains in the distance. Cahal Pech is also located on the southern tip of the modern city of San Ignacio -- although the area feels more like the middle of a rain forest -- making the site especially accessible for tourists. Excavations, which have already unearthed a royal tomb and hundreds of distinctive pottery pieces, continue on the site. Some archaeologists are even happy to discuss their findings with visitors.
Visitors to Cahal Pech first see the 77-foot pyramid structure off the central plaza. The rest of the plaza is surrounded by palaces and ceremonial platforms, all at irregular angles -- oriented toward different stars rather than other buildings on the site. The largest palace complex is opposite the pyramid, with a series of small passageways leading to internal courtyards. Throughout the site, visitors can also see finely cut stone slabs, with depictions of different rulers, gods and Mayan glyphs -- the civilization's writing system.
Cahal Pech is a 10-minute walk from the town center of San Ignacio. Tourists arrive at a visitor's center with pottery and artifacts on display, as well as general information about the city. The park entrance fee allows you to stay on the site until closing at sunset, and you can pay an additional fee for a guided tour. Try arriving early in the morning to have the site to yourself and remember to bring some snacks and mosquito repellent if you want to spend the whole day in Cahal Pech. As in any ecologically sensitive area, biodegradable mosquito repellent is always a good idea.
