Explore the Map
Cahal Pech
17.1457° N, -89.0741° E
About
Cahal Pech is a Maya site located near the town of San Ignacio in the Cayo District of Belize. The site was a palatial, hilltop home for an elite Maya family, and though the most major construction dates to the Classic period, evidence of continuous habitation has been dated to as far back as 1200 BCE during the Early Middle Formative period (Early Middle Preclassic), making Cahal Pech one of the oldest recognizably Maya sites in Western Belize.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Earliest habitation
c. 1200 BCE
Abandonment
9th century CE
Naming and first studies
1950s
Primary excavation began
1988
Restoration completed
2000
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Public and Civic Structures
Religious and Ritual Structures
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
More Sites in Belize
Caracol
Maya city and monumental center in western Belize
Nohmul
Maya archaeological site and pyramid in northern Belize
Xnaheb
Pre-Columbian Maya center in southern Belize
Actun Tunichil Muknal
Maya ritual cave in Belize
Nim Li Punit
Maya Classic site, 5th–8th century AD, southern Belize
Cuello
Maya village site, northern Belize (c.1200–900 BC)