Kohunlich, a Mayan city and ceremonial center, is located in the Río Bec region, near the border between Mexico and Belize. The area has a humid-tropical climate and a soil dominated by sedimentary rocks, especially limestone and gypsum.
This sprawling site covers around 21 acres surrounded by tropical forest.
The design of the buildings, as well as the remains of water pipes and cisterns, suggest that Kohunlich was once a city of great importance.
The place has approximately 200 mounds, although many of them still remain unexcavated and covered by vegetation.
According to the available archaeological information, it is estimated that the first inhabitants arrived at Kohunlich around 500 BC, and most of the most significant constructions were carried out between 250 and 600 AD.
Kohunlich is believed to have played a crucial role as a connecting point in trade between the cities of the Yucatan Peninsula and various Mayan cities in Central America.
One of the most notable sites is Building A-1 or the Mascarones, known for its monumental stucco reliefs that preserve the original red paint that covered the entire temple. This building, possibly built during the Early Classic period, exhibits strong influences of the Petén style.
Did you know…?
The mortar masks that decorate the Temple of the Mascarones, related to the so-called Petén style, have become a kind of regional symbol.
