Santa Rita Maya Archeological Site

¿Qué puedes ver aquí?

Due to its location some archaeologists believe that Santa Rita was probably the ancient and important Maya city of Chetumal. From this location the city held control of the trade routes along the coast during the early Classic period. They also could control the entrances to the Rio Hondo and New River which were major arteries of trade to Lamanai and the Peten Region. Archaeologists have identified strong trade links with major centers deep within the interior. he exact borders of the ancient Maya city are unknown. Though exhibiting a long occupational history, Santa Rita was mainly an impor...tant Postclassic site which was occupied even when the Spanish arrived. The formation of the city dates to around 2000 B.C. This date was established through the discovery of a burial site containing very early pottery. The only existing structure at the ruin dates from the Classic Period. This building is a complex series of rooms and passages. The central room appeared to be some sort of ceremonial chamber where offerings were made. Two burial chambers were uncovered here, one containing elaborate jewelry and pottery. The second burial chamber contained a ceremonial flint and a stingray spine used in bloodletting rituals. The Postclassic Period at Santa Rita, the Period to which the importance of this site is normally attached, is revealed through artifacts rather than structures. Because very little remains of the structures of this time period. Leer más