Aerial image of High Temple at Lamanai, Belize, enveloped by dense jungle. The temple, a large pyramid-like structure constructed of limestone, rises prominently above the treeline.

About this experience

Lamanai High Temple

Orange Walk District, Belize

Start Experience (Opens in new tab)
English Español

Published: 2024 (v1)

Story outline

  • Lamanai High Temple

    Welcome to Lamanai in Belize. The High Temple at Lamanai exemplifies a longstanding bond between people and the land, dating back to Mayan times, that is upheld through local conservation and cultural practices today.

  • Stop 1. The High Temple

    Emerging from the lush canopy, Lamanai's High Temple stands as Northern Belize's tallest structure at 33 meters. Constructed from local limestone, it symbolizes ancient Maya architectural mastery and continuity in the region.

  • Stop 2. Maya Waterways

    From atop the High Temple, you look out over the jungle to New River lagoon. This crucial waterway linked Lamanai to the Caribbean, facilitating trade and sustenance, and contributing to its longevity as a hub.

  • Stop 3. The Need to Conserve

    Despite its grandeur, the high temple is vulnerable to damage from the natural environment and human activity. Noticeable conservation efforts help preserve the structure and its legacy.

  • Stop 4. Traditional Methods

    In Belize, conservation involves community members and traditional Maya techniques to stabilize structures and counter environmental and human threats. This includes using local materials like white lime for mortar, removing harmful vegetation, and managing water to prevent erosion.

  • Stop 5. Pok Ta Pok

    Lamanai’s ball court lacks the typical stone rings but is rich with archaeological finds. Today, Pok ta Pok is being revived in Belize through games and educational programs, deepening appreciation for Maya heritage.

  • Stop 6. Connection to Nature

    The plaza at Lamanai allows visitors to reflect and connect with nature, emphasizing the importance of preserving such sites to understand and protect our shared human history and heritage.

Voices

  • Jorge Can

    Conservator, Institute of Archaeology

    Jorge Can is a conservator with the Institute of Archaeology. He lead the conservation project at the High Temple and has been involved in conservation projects around Belize.

  • Miss Sonia

    Teaching Principal, Indian Church Government School

    Miss Sonia is a resident of Indian Church village and the teaching Principal of the Indian Church Government School. Although not originally from the area, she considers Lamanai a part of her home.

  • Mr. Mauricio

    Tour Guide

    Mr. Mauricio grew up in Indian Church Village and now serves as a tour guide for Lamanai. He is passionate about his work and the conservation of the site.

  • Miss Ada

    Conservation Worker

    Miss Ada is a resident of Indian Church Village and was involved in the conservation project at the High Temple.

Partners

About the Project

The Lamanai High Temple experience was created by The Institute of Archaeology (IA) in Belize working with CyArk as part of the Cultural Heritage Exchange Initiative supported by the United States Department of State. CyArk worked with the IA participants to provide training in 3D capture and place-based storytelling. IA then documented the site, conducted interviews and developed a script for the experience.

Related Links

Credits

This Tapestry experience was created as part of the Community Heritage Exchange Initiative with support from the U.S. State Department. This project was led by the Institute of Archaeology in Belize

Related experience

Cliff Palace (Opens in new tab) — Explore a cliff dwelling and hear from descendent communities