This is a companion guide to the interactive 3D virtual tour: Lamanai High Temple. You can click here (Opens in new tab) to begin the tour.
Story outline
Each stop is a location within the virtual tour. Use the "Explore in 3D" button to jump straight to any stop.
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Lamanai High Temple
Explore in 3D: Lamanai High Temple (Opens in new tab)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
Explore in 3D: Stop 1. The High Temple (Opens in new tab)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
Explore in 3D: Stop 2. Maya Waterways (Opens in new tab)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
Explore in 3D: Stop 3. The Need to Conserve (Opens in new tab)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
Explore in 3D: Stop 4. Traditional Methods (Opens in new tab)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
Explore in 3D: Stop 5. Pok Ta Pok (Opens in new tab)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
Explore in 3D: Stop 6. Connection to Nature (Opens in new tab)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
Hear Stories From Locals & Experts
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Jorge Can
Conservator, Institute of Archaeology
Jorge Can is a conservator with the Institute of Archaeology. He led the conservation project at the High Temple and has been involved in conservation projects around Belize.
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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.
Gallery
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
