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Parque Arqueológico Tazumal: Echoes of the Mayan Past

Discover El Salvador's ancient Mayan past at Parque Arqueológico Tazumal, featuring pyramids, a ball court, and a fascinating museum.

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Explore the ancient Mayan city of Tazumal in Chalchuapa, El Salvador, a significant archaeological site with structures dating back to 100 AD. Wander through pyramids, platforms, and a ball court, and delve into the past at the on-site museum.

A brief summary to Parque Arqueológico Tazumal

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, a hat, and sunscreen, as the site offers limited shade and the ground can be uneven.
  • Bring water to stay hydrated, especially during the hotter months.
  • Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the site's history and significance.
  • Visit during the week to avoid larger crowds.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From San Salvador, take bus 202 towards Chalchuapa. The bus departs from Terminal de Occidente every 10 minutes and costs $2. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 43 minutes. Once in Chalchuapa, ask locals for directions to Parque Arqueológico Tazumal, located on C. Tazumal. It's a short walk from the town center.

  • Public Transport

    From Santa Ana, take bus 202 or 218 towards Chalchuapa. These buses depart from 9a Calle Poniente between 8a and 10a Avenidas Sur. The ticket costs approximately $0.32 and the journey takes around 30 minutes. The bus will drop you off near the cemetery; the entrance to Tazumal is a short walk away on 7a Calle Oriente.

  • Car

    From San Salvador, take the CA-1 highway towards Santa Ana. After approximately 60 km, take the exit towards Chalchuapa. Drive 5 km on the local road until you reach C. Tazumal, where the park is located. There is street parking available near the entrance.

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Discover more about Parque Arqueológico Tazumal

Parque Arqueológico Tazumal, located in Chalchuapa, El Salvador, offers a captivating glimpse into the Mayan civilization that thrived here from 100 to 1200 AD. The name 'Tazumal' may mean 'pyramid where the victims were burned' in the Kiche language. This archaeological site features impressive structures, including pyramids, platforms, temples, and a ball court, showcasing the architectural and engineering skills of the ancient Maya. The centerpiece of the park is the main pyramid, a 24-meter-high structure that dominates the landscape. The pyramid's construction occurred in phases between 100 and 800 AD. Visitors can explore the various structures and learn about the site's history through informative displays and guided tours. The on-site museum houses a collection of Mayan artifacts, providing further insights into the daily lives, traditions, and beliefs of this ancient civilization. Tazumal was part of an extensive trade network, linking it to other sites in the region and beyond. The site's history is marked by periods of construction, abandonment, and reoccupation, reflecting the dynamic nature of the Mayan civilization. Today, Parque Arqueológico Tazumal stands as a testament to El Salvador's rich cultural heritage and a must-see destination for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

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