Joya de Cerén: The Pompeii of the Americas
Step back in time at Joya de Cerén, a remarkably preserved Mayan farming village offering a unique glimpse into ancient Mesoamerican life.
Joya de Cerén, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of a 7th-century Mayan farming village. Preserved by a volcanic eruption, the site showcases remarkably intact structures and artifacts, providing invaluable insights into Mesoamerican culture.
A brief summary to Parque Arqueológico Joya de Cerén
- Carr. San Juan Opico - Agua Escondida Km 32, SV
- +50324015782
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a fair amount of walking around the site.
- Bring water and sunscreen, as the area can be hot and humid.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the site.
- Visit the museum to see the artifacts found during the excavation.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From San Salvador, take the Ruta 201 bus towards Santa Ana and disembark at Puente Seco (Cd. Arce). From there, you can hire a taxi for the remaining 10-minute drive to Joya de Cerén. The bus fare is approximately $0.85, and the taxi ride should cost around $5-$7.
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Taxi/Ride-share
A direct taxi or Uber ride from San Salvador to Joya de Cerén takes about 30 minutes and typically costs between $20 and $30.
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