Plaza Baktun: A Mystical Mayan Ceremonial Site

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Discover Plaza Baktun in Chichicastenango, a sacred Mayan site where ancient rituals and traditions come to life, offering a unique cultural experience.

Plaza Baktun in Chichicastenango is a modern ceremonial site where ancient Mayan traditions come to life. Inaugurated in 2012, it marks the end of a significant cycle in the Mayan calendar and serves as a sacred space for rituals and offerings by K'iche' Maya priests.

A brief summary to Plaza Baktun

WVVM+65X, Chichicastenango, GT

Local tips

Visit early in the morning to experience the site with fewer people and a more intimate atmosphere.
Observe any ongoing ceremonies respectfully, keeping a distance if you are not participating.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Chichicastenango Cemetery for a comprehensive cultural experience.
Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with local guides and understand the significance of the rituals.

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Chichicastenango Regional Museum

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Getting There

Walking

Plaza Baktun is located a short walk from the center of Chichicastenango, near the famous market and the Chichicastenango Cemetery. From the Santo Tomás Church, walk towards the Chichicastenango Cemetery. Plaza Baktun is adjacent to the cemetery. The walk is generally easy and takes about 5-10 minutes.
Public Transport

If arriving in Chichicastenango by bus or shuttle, you will likely be dropped off near the market. From there, it's a short walk to the Chichicastenango Cemetery and Plaza Baktun. Local buses ('chicken buses') are a common mode of transport in Guatemala, but can be crowded and may not be the safest option. Shuttle services offer a more comfortable and direct option from major tourist hubs like Antigua or Lake Atitlan, with prices ranging from $20-$45.

Discover more about Plaza Baktun

Plaza Baktun, also known as Oxlajuj B'aktun, is a captivating ceremonial site located near the Chichicastenango Cemetery. Inaugurated in December 2012, the plaza commemorates the end of the 13th B'aktun, a 394-year period in the Mayan calendar, marking not the end of the world, but the beginning of a new era. This plaza is a living testament to the enduring Mayan culture, where traditions are passed down through generations. Here, visitors can witness Mayan priests and guides performing rituals and offerings for various purposes. The plaza features seven stelae oriented to the cardinal directions, which are fundamental to Mayan ceremonies. The site is adorned with structures featuring figures of mythical and religious beings from ancient Mayan culture, symbolizing the sun and the traditional 'güipil' collar worn by women from Chichicastenango. Keep in mind that if you are not partaking in a ceremony, it is best to stay on the outer perimeter and be respectful. Plaza Baktun provides a unique opportunity to connect with the mystical and cultural heart of the Mayan people. It is a place where visitors can appreciate the blend of ancient traditions and contemporary life, making it a memorable stop for anyone exploring Guatemala's rich heritage.

Explore the best of what Plaza Baktun has to offer

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File:Iglesia de Santo Tomás 2009.JPG - Wikimedia Commons

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