Mixco Viejo ruins

09 de Octubre 2015

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This Mayan city was the ancient capital of the Poqoman, where a set of well-preserved pyramidal structures are welcomed with styles that differ from northern cities such as Petén. At its entrance it has a detailed three-dimensional model of high importance. Plan the route in advance and appreciate the structure of the city. Mixco Viejo ruins

Former capital of the Maya-Poqoman that meets a set of well-preserved pyramidal structures. The style is slightly different from the original features found in cities located north as Petén, but absolutely worth the visit.

The place is surrounded with mixed vegetation, providing harmonious views of the natural and restored buildings.
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Mayan City of great importance

Its key point was reached in the Post Classic Period. Its estimated population exceeded 10,000.  One hundred and  twenty total architectural structures form the conglomerate. Most temples are in good condition and fully restored ,several so impressive at first sight.

There are two ball courts and a stone wall that surrounds the place, which was built as a defense against possible attacks.It made it extremely difficult to conquer the city by Pedro de Alvarado and his troops. Mixco Viejo finally succumbed to the Spanish power and the city burned.
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Once again the strategic location, traditional to the Mayan  populated areas, meant an actual difficulty for the attackers. Mixco Viejo stands as an excellent example of this tradition, as it is surrounded by cliffs and has only one way in and out of town.

Upon admission, visitors are advised to visitan area to the left side where you'll find detailed scale models representing the entire complex. This facilitates general overall appearance, if one is not planning on walking through  Mixco Viejo.

The climate is generally hot, and it is recommended to wear sunscreen and appropriate clothing. The nature of the place, with fountains and lush forests make colorful birds  abundant during the walk through the archaeological site.

Mixco Viejo is located just minutes from the capital city. There is a lot of tourist traffic on this  route, as the site visits are usually done in a particular way or precontracted tour groups. However, the route itself is beautiful to make stops from Guatemala to Santa Cruz.
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How to arrive at Mixco Viejo

Take the road to San Juan Sacatepequez. Continuing north to find Montufar and then Mixco Viejo.

You will find some shops on the road and some catering on the side of a bridge, although in general, it is a path without a lot of options around, and a lack of hotel infrastructure nearby.  Motagua River decorates the landscape alongside the road, which is accompanied in some sections by a neighborhood.
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Requesting permission to guides and camp managers in the complex is a must, however do not forget that it's hot and there is no major infrastructure in the vicinity. You must carry everything you need.
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