Natural
Parc archéologique et ruines de Quirigua
Guatemala
Photo : PIERRE ANDRE LECLERCQ (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Located in the Izabal region of eastern Guatemala, this archaeological park preserves the ruins of an important Maya settlement that flourished during the Classic Period. The site is situated within a tropical rainforest environment along the Motagua River valley, which served as a critical trade corridor in the ancient Maya world. Quirigua is distinguished by its collection of carved stelae and altars, which represent significant examples of Maya sculptural art and hieroglyphic inscriptions. The ruins document the development of Maya civilization through successive occupation phases and demonstrate the cultural achievements of this pre-Columbian center. The site's designation reflects its importance as an archaeological resource that illuminates Maya history, culture, and artistic practices within its natural forest setting.
