Ceibal Ruins

This is a Maya archaeological site in the south of Peten, near Sayaxché, on the banks of The Passion River. Occupation began around 800 BC and gained momentum until about 50 BC when it started to decline. It was rediscovered in 1892 by Federico Artes and its name comes from the huge Ceiba trees adjacent to the architectural structures. It's recognized as a ceremonial centre with more than 600 structures, many of which have been hidden by the forest. Its astrological observatory and a lot of the stone steles especially stand out. During its heyday, from 700 to 900 AD, Ceibal housed more than 10,000