The Mayan legacy of magnificent temples and palaces plays an important role in the history of Belize. The Mayan habitation began as early as 1500 B.C. and began declining in 900 A.D., although some Maya cultural centers continued to thrive until the Spanish arrived in the 15 century. Belize's population was very large during the classic period (250 A.D. to 900 A.D.)at nearly one million people when Belize became the hub of the Mayan civilization. There remains a significant number of Mayan ancestors living in small villages throughout the country today.
The government of Belize, through the Department of Archaelogy, is determined to give travelers access to these sites which are scattered throughout the country's landscape.
