When most people think of ancient pyramids, places like Egypt or Chichen Itza probably come to mind. And I do not blame them. But if you’re a fan of pyramids (and you’re here, so I bet you are), there’s one place that should definitely be on your radar: Lamanai, an ancient Maya city in Belize. And unlike some other ancient ruins that are pretty much deserted, Lamanai was lived in for over 3,000 years, right up until the Spanish showed up.
The city has a lot to offer, but let’s be honest, the real showstopper here is the Great Temple—a massive (okay not sooo massive but still pretty big) pyramid that rises out of the jungle. If you’re all about pyramids, Lamanai should absolutely be on your must-visit list. Let me break down why. And it is not just because of its pyramid structures.
Lamanai: The Ancient City That’s Still Standing Strong
First off, what makes Lamanai special? Well, for starters, it’s one of the few Maya cities that kept its original name. “Lamanai” means “submerged crocodile” in the Maya language, which totally makes sense when you consider the croc-filled river right nearby. It’s not just the name that’s unique. Lamanai was continuously inhabited for thousands of years. That’s right—it wasn’t abandoned after a couple of centuries like many other ancient sites. It survived the rise and fall of the Maya civilization and even the arrival of the Spanish.
This place was a major city in the Maya world, controlling important trade routes along the New River. But while the city had political and economic importance, today it’s the massive pyramid in the center that grabs everyone’s attention.
The Great Temple: Lamanai’s Famous Pyramid
Let’s get to the good stuff: the Great Temple (also called Structure N10-43 if you’re into technical names). This pyramid is 108 feet tall—about the same height as a 10-story building. It’s not the tallest pyramid in the world, but it sure feels like it when you’re standing at the base, craning your neck to look up. Plus, as I have explained, unlike many other popular destinations in Yucatan and the “Maya world” this site isn’t overcrowded by tourists!
What’s cool about the Great Temple is that you can actually climb it. Once you make it to the top (and yes, it’s a bit of a workout), you’re rewarded with an incredible view of the surrounding jungle and the New River.
The Pyramif of the Jaguar at Lamanai. Image credit: Wikimedia Commons / Martin Falbisoner.
Why the Maya Built Pyramids
So, why did the Maya go through the trouble of building these huge pyramids? They weren’t just for show. In Maya culture, pyramids had deep religious meaning. They were seen as a bridge between the people and the gods, a way to connect with the heavens. The higher the pyramid, the closer they believed they were to the gods. Rulers would perform ceremonies and sacrifices on these pyramids, solidifying their power and divine right to rule.
Lamanai’s Great Temple is a perfect example of this. It wasn’t just a big stone building—it was a center of spiritual life. People would have gathered here for religious ceremonies, and it was likely one of the most important structures in the city. It’s also stood the test of time, which is pretty amazing when you think about how long it’s been there.
Visiting Lamanai Today
If you’re planning a trip to Belize, Lamanai is easy to reach. Most people also enjoy taking a boat ride from Orange Walk Town, which is actually a pretty cool experience in itself. Some of the the boat excursions take you down the New River, passing through the jungle where you might spot howler monkeys, birds, and—if you’re lucky (or unlucky, depending on how you feel about reptiles)—a crocodile or two. It’s the perfect follow-up activity to visit an ancient city named after a submerged crocodile.
When you get to the site, you can explore not only the Great Temple but also other structures like the Jaguar Temple and the Mask Temple, which are decorated with large stone carvings. And if you’re a history buff like I am, definitely consider taking a guided tour. The guides here are knowledgeable, and they can give you insights into the city’s history that you might miss on your own.
Why Lamanai’s Pyramid Should Be on Your Bucket List
Let’s face it—pyramids are awesome. As I have said hundreds of times in my articles. And while Lamanai’s Great Temple might not be as famous as some others, it’s just as impressive, especially because of its location. Imagine climbing this massive pyramid, surrounded by dense jungle, with the sounds of wildlife in the background. I, for one, love that feeling, boieng in touch not only with history through the remnants of such ancient sites but by nature, the jungle, and the entire experience.
And as I have already said previously, unlike other Maya sites that are swarming with tourists, Lamanai still feels a bit off the beaten path. You won’t be fighting crowds here, which makes the experience even more special. Plus, being able to climb the pyramid and take in the view from the top is a unique experience that you don’t get at a lot of other sites.
Why You Should Visit Lamanai
Lamanai is a treasure for anyone who loves history, and pyramids, or just wants to experience something truly unique. Its Great Temple is a must-see for any pyramid enthusiast, but the whole site is worth exploring. From its rich history to the jungle boat ride to the top of the pyramid, Lamanai offers something for everyone. So, if you’re heading to Belize, make sure you add Lamanai to your itinerary. It’s a place where you can connect with ancient history, climb an incredible pyramid, and experience the beauty of Belize’s natural landscape all in one go. As with all my articles about pyramids, I have pinpointed this ancient site in the map just below the article. Happy exploring!
