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Museo Sylvanus G. Morley: Unveiling Mayan History

Explore Mayan artifacts and discover the legacy of Sylvanus Morley at Tikal's archaeological museum.

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Located in Tikal National Park, the Museo Sylvanus G. Morley is an archaeological museum dedicated to Sylvanus Morley, a pioneering Mayanist. The museum showcases artifacts recovered from Tikal, offering insights into the lives and achievements of the ancient Maya.

A brief summary to Museo Sylvanus G. Morley

  • 69FQ+X78, RD-PET-3, Tikal, GT
  • Monday 8 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the day to avoid crowds and the midday heat.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum's exhibits.
  • Combine your museum visit with exploration of the Tikal ruins for a comprehensive experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Museo Sylvanus G. Morley is located within the Tikal National Park, near the visitor center. From the main entrance of the park, follow the signs towards the Centro de Visitantes. The museum is a short walk from the main plaza and other key attractions within Tikal. Park entrance fee is required: 150 GTQ (about $20 USD). An additional 100 GTQ (about $13 USD) is required to enter the park before 6:00 AM or after 5:00 PM and a guide is required.

  • Public Transport

    Most visitors arrive at Tikal via shuttle or bus from Flores. From Flores, take a shuttle (approx. 80 GTQ roundtrip) to Tikal National Park. Once inside the park, the museum is located near the visitor center and is easily accessible by foot. Remember to factor in the park entrance fee of 150 GTQ (about $20 USD). An additional 100 GTQ (about $13 USD) is required to enter the park before 6:00 AM or after 5:00 PM and a guide is required.

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Discover more about Museo Sylvanus G. Morley

The Museo Sylvanus G. Morley, situated within the Tikal National Park, serves as an introduction to the wonders of this ancient Mayan city. The museum is named after Sylvanus Griswold Morley, a prominent American archaeologist and epigrapher who dedicated his life to studying the pre-Columbian Maya civilization. Morley's work significantly contributed to our understanding of Maya hieroglyphs and the civilization's rich history. The museum displays a collection of artifacts, including ceramics, carved stones, flint, obsidian tools, and bone artifacts, recovered during archaeological excavations at Tikal. Exhibits include a reconstruction of the tomb of King Ah Cacau from Temple I, showcasing the jade and other precious items found within. While the original jade artifacts are housed in the National Museum in Guatemala City, the replica provides a glimpse into the opulence of Mayan royal burials. The Museo Sylvanus G. Morley plays a vital role in preserving and interpreting the cultural heritage of Tikal. It provides context for understanding the significance of the archaeological site and the advanced civilization that once thrived there. Note that descriptions are primarily in Spanish.

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