Tikal is an ancient Mayan city located in the Petén region of Guatemala. It was one of the most prominent and powerful urban centers of the Mayan civilization, serving as a political, economic, and cultural hub during its peak. The name "Tikal" translates to "Place of Voices" or "City of Echoes" in the Mayan language.
Tikal flourished between the 4th and 10th centuries AD, reaching its peak around the 8th century. It was a city of great architectural and artistic achievements, characterized by its grand pyramids, temples, palaces, and ceremonial platforms. The city was built amidst dense tropical forests, integrating nature and urban life seamlessly.
The site of Tikal covers an area of over 16 square kilometers, encompassing more than 3,000 structures. Its most iconic and recognizable structure is the Temple of the Great Jaguar (also known as Temple I), which stands tall at about 47 meters high. Tikal also includes the Lost World Complex, the North Acropolis, and the Central Acropolis, among others.
Abandoned around the 10th century, Tikal was rediscovered in the mid-19th century and has since become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting tourists, archaeologists, and history enthusiasts from around the globe. Excavations and ongoing research at Tikal provide valuable insights into the ancient Mayan civilization, its rituals, belief systems, and societal structure.
