Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quirigua
Location: Eastern Guatemala
Year of Inscription: 1981
Criteria:(i)to represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: Quirigua is an ancient Maya city that dates back to the 6th century AD. The site is known for its impressive stelae (tall, carved stone monuments) that depict Maya rulers and their achievements. It is also home to the largest known Maya stele, which stands over 10 meters tall.
Prominent Features: The Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quirigua is characterized by its large stelae and other stone carvings. Some of the most notable features include:
The Great Plaza: A large open space surrounded by several stelae and other stone structures.
Stela E: The largest known Maya stele, which stands over 10 meters tall and depicts the ruler K'ak' Tiliw Chan Yopaat.
Stela D: A stela that depicts the ruler K'ak' Yipyaj Chan K'awiil.
History: Quirigua was an important Maya city that flourished between the 6th and 9th centuries AD. The city was known for its production of cacao, which was used as currency throughout the Maya world. The site was abandoned around the 10th century AD, and was rediscovered by archaeologists in the early 20th century.
Family-Friendly Activities: There are several playgrounds located within the park, which are perfect for young children to burn off some energy and have fun.
Fun Fact: The carvings on the stelae at Quirigua are considered some of the finest examples of Maya art, and are known for their intricate detail and realism.
Entry Fees: The entry fee to the Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quirigua is 80 GTQ (Guatemalan Quetzales) for foreign visitors, and 40 GTQ for Guatemalan nationals.
Public Transport: Buses run regularly from Guatemala City to Quirigua, with a travel time of around 6-7 hours. Visitors can also hire a taxi or take a private shuttle.
Where to Stay: There are a number of hotels and guesthouses located in the nearby city of Livingston, which is around 30 minutes from Quirigua. Some of the options include Hotel Villa Caribe, Casa Rosada, and Hotel y Restaurante Casa Escondida.
Next Stop: Tikal National Park
Year of Inscription: 1981
Criteria:(i)to represent a masterpiece of human creative genius;
(ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: Quirigua is an ancient Maya city that dates back to the 6th century AD. The site is known for its impressive stelae (tall, carved stone monuments) that depict Maya rulers and their achievements. It is also home to the largest known Maya stele, which stands over 10 meters tall.
Prominent Features: The Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quirigua is characterized by its large stelae and other stone carvings. Some of the most notable features include:
The Great Plaza: A large open space surrounded by several stelae and other stone structures.
Stela E: The largest known Maya stele, which stands over 10 meters tall and depicts the ruler K'ak' Tiliw Chan Yopaat.
Stela D: A stela that depicts the ruler K'ak' Yipyaj Chan K'awiil.
History: Quirigua was an important Maya city that flourished between the 6th and 9th centuries AD. The city was known for its production of cacao, which was used as currency throughout the Maya world. The site was abandoned around the 10th century AD, and was rediscovered by archaeologists in the early 20th century.
Family-Friendly Activities: There are several playgrounds located within the park, which are perfect for young children to burn off some energy and have fun.
Fun Fact: The carvings on the stelae at Quirigua are considered some of the finest examples of Maya art, and are known for their intricate detail and realism.
Entry Fees: The entry fee to the Archaeological Park and Ruins of Quirigua is 80 GTQ (Guatemalan Quetzales) for foreign visitors, and 40 GTQ for Guatemalan nationals.
Public Transport: Buses run regularly from Guatemala City to Quirigua, with a travel time of around 6-7 hours. Visitors can also hire a taxi or take a private shuttle.
Where to Stay: There are a number of hotels and guesthouses located in the nearby city of Livingston, which is around 30 minutes from Quirigua. Some of the options include Hotel Villa Caribe, Casa Rosada, and Hotel y Restaurante Casa Escondida.
Next Stop: Tikal National Park