Dzibanche Review

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Dzibanché

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Fodor's Review:

Archaeologists have been making progress in excavating more and more ruins, albeit slowly. At Dzibanché, several carved wooden lintels have been discovered; the most perfectly preserved sample is in a supporting arch at the Plaza de Xibalba (Plaza of Xibalba). Also at the plaza is the Templo del Búho (Temple of the Owl), atop which a recessed tomb was found, the second discovery of its kind in Mexico (the first was at Palenque in Chiapas). In the tomb were magnificent clay vessels painted with white owls—messengers of the underworld gods. More buildings and three plazas have been restored as excavation continues. Several other plazas are surrounded by temples, palaces, and pyramids, all in the Petén style. The carved stone steps at Edificio 13 and Edificio 2 (Buildings 13 and 2) still bear traces of stone masks. A copy of the famed lintel of Templo IV (Temple IV), with eight glyphs dating from AD 618, is housed in the Museo de la Cultura Maya in Chetumal. (The original was replaced in 2003 because of deterioration.) Four more tombs were discovered at Templo I (Temple I).

  • Cost: $4
  • Open: Daily 8-5
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