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Iximché: A Window into the Kaqchikel Maya Kingdom

Discover Iximché, the ancient Kaqchikel capital in Guatemala's highlands, offering a unique glimpse into Maya history and enduring spiritual traditions.

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Explore the evocative ruins of Iximché, the former capital of the Kaqchikel Maya in the Guatemalan highlands. Wander through ceremonial plazas, discover ancient pyramids, and witness the ongoing spiritual significance of this historical site, once also the first capital of Spanish Guatemala.

A brief summary to Sitio Arqueológico Iximche

  • 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

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain and exploring the ruins.
  • Bring water and snacks, as there are limited options available within the archaeological site.
  • Dress in layers, as the weather in the highlands can change quickly.
  • Be respectful if you encounter any traditional Maya ceremonies taking place.
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Getting There

  • Car

    Driving to Iximché from Guatemala City takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours via the Pan-American Highway (CA-1) west towards Tecpán. After passing through Tecpán, look for signs to Iximché, roughly 10 minutes from the town center. Parking is available near the site entrance.

  • Public Transport

    From Guatemala City or Antigua, take a 'chicken bus' to Tecpán. In Tecpán, hire a tuk-tuk or taxi to Iximché, which is about 3 km south of the town. The tuk-tuk ride should cost around Q10-Q25.

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Discover more about Sitio Arqueológico Iximche

Iximché, meaning "corn tree" in the Maya language, offers a captivating journey into Guatemala's pre-Columbian past. This archaeological site, located near Tecpán in the Chimaltenango department, was the capital of the Kaqchikel Maya kingdom from 1470 until its abandonment in 1524. The Kaqchikel established their capital on a defensible ridge surrounded by deep ravines. Within 50 years of its founding, Iximché had reached its maximum extent. Iximché features six plazas and over 170 structures. Explore ceremonial plazas, pyramid-temples, palaces, and two Mesoamerican ballcourts. The Temple of the Dancers is adorned with intricate stucco decorations. The site also includes a small museum displaying sculptures and ceramics found during excavations. Iximché briefly served as the first Spanish capital in the region between 1524 and 1527. Today, Iximché remains a sacred place for the Maya people, who continue to perform traditional ceremonies and rituals. Visitors may observe these ceremonies, especially on important dates in the Maya calendar.

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