Belize Caving
Belize is the smallest country in Central America and has the lowest population density. The mountainous regions of the country are riddled with caves, some of which are world-class and an untold number are still waiting to be "discovered". In Mayan times, caves were the entrance to Xibalba, the Mayan underworld, where the ancient Mayans descended to commune with their gods.
Belize cave formations
Xibalba
Most caves in Belize that have been explored contain Mayan artifacts, probably owing to the fact that the Mayan population at its peak was much larger than the present day populace. The most common evidence of Mayan visitation are the numerous pottery shards that are spread throughout many caves. Complete pots are difficult to come by, however, as vessels that were used in ceremonies were broken into pieces, after which some of the pieces were ground into a fine powder, to prevent evil spirits from reassembling them and causing some harm to the previous owner.
Cave
formations in Crystal Cave
Mayan
pottery
Go to p. 2
Interactive map of Belize
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