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PACBITUN Located on private land three kilometres east of San Antonio, Pacbitun is one of the oldest pre-classical sites. It was not studied until 1971 though the local farmers knew of its existence for generations. The site was first of all occupied around 1000 B.C. The site flourished in the Late Pre-classic and Late Classic. It is believed that Pacbitun had some trade with Teotihuacan during the early classic due to the discovery of green obsidian on the site. Pacbitun sits among hills that the Maya terraced long ago. Once a major ceremonial center, Pacbitun covers 75 acres with the center about .5 miles long. At the site there are about 25 temple pyramids. The tallest is about 16.5 meters. A ball court, causeways, elite residencies, and 8 carved and uncarved stelae are present. There is also an unusual irrigation system that is raised above the ground. Also at the site some rare Mayan musical instruments were discovered. Pacbitun was not registered with the Department of Archaeology until 1971. The Trent University was the first to carry out excavations in the 80s. In 1986 and 1987 some of the structure were consolidated and reconstructed. The site is situated about 7.5 km east of the Macal River and three kilometres east of San Antonio. Pacbitun is about a 30-minute drive up from Santa Elena on the Cristo Rey. The land is privately own so it is suggested that you contact a Mr. Tuzal before entering the site. |