Uxbenka is one of five major Mayan sites in the region. It is believed to be the oldest, as it was active between A.D. 250 and 500. The site has undergone minimal uncovering, and as such, it is not advertised for visitation in the way that Lubaantun or Nim Li Punit are. The site itself may be hard to find, and it lies off most travelers' paths, and this adds an element of mystery to those who track it down.
Walking down a 300-foot path to the site, Uxbenka contains 13 stelae, only two of which remain standing. Most have been weathered in the ensuing 1,500 years, and their contents are unknown. The site's core is made up of two larger structures. There is a tomb centrally located at the site, with the sites of residential structures being dispersed around the core.
There are nearly no improvements, and the site does not cater to visitors. A single thatched covering is the only amenity for those visiting the site. This, however, gives those who make it the chance to see a Mayan structure in its raw form.
There are no signs marking the location of Uxbenka. The easiest way to find it is to look for the cement watertower at the eastern fringe of the village of Santa Cruz. Up a dirt road on the opposite side of the highway from the water tower, you can park and walk down a path that will take you to the base of the site. It is also possible to ask village residents where the location is.
Comments
Sign In and share them.