Lubaantun Mayan Ruins - If you believe that size matters, a trip to Lubaantun, a one-of-a-kind ruin in Southern Belize that has the distinction of having unique architectural and construction features, should top your list of must-see attractions. Lubaantun has nothing in common with most other Mayan sites and for myriad reasons, perhaps the most dramatic being its huge size. This village was so expansive, it served as commercial, residential and religious hubs, all of which you’ll experience when you tour this magnificent site.
Lubaantun’s 11 large, towering structures–plus five plazas and three ball courts–are marvels that have no equal, according to Belize’s Institute of Archaeology and archaeologists who oversaw excavation of this landmark. There are no doorways to be seen, and building corners are round rather than square. You’ll have to imagine thatch and wood structures that once topped these buildings because they’re gone now. Green moss peeks out from every crevice, reminding visitors that Lubaantun thrived during the Classic Period (730 to 890 AD) but remains nothing more than an echo of the past today.
Crystal Skull - The most famous crystal skull is the Mitchell-Hedges "skull of doom" allegedly discovered by a 17-year old Anna Mitchell-Hedges in 1924 or 1927 while accompanying her adoptive father on an excavation of the ancient Mayan city of Lubaantun in Belize.
Mitchell-Hedges was in Belize, because he believed he would find the ruins of Atlantis. The Mitchell-Hedges skull is made of clear quartz crystal, and both cranium and mandible are believed to have come from the same solid block. It weighs 11.7 pounds and is about five inches high, five inches wide, and seven inches long. Except for slight anomalies in the temples and cheekbones, it is a virtually anatomically correct replica of a human skull.
Why should you visit Lubaantun Mayan Ruins?
No need to be a big fan of architectural style to be impressed by buildings made of limestone blocks held in place by nothing more than air! Mayan builders used advanced construction methods, literally hand-cutting every block to align with those surrounding it. As a ceremonial center, Lubaantun had no equal, though over time, that mortar-free construction led to this site’s disintegration, further eroded by Thomas Gann. In 1924, the archaeologist used dynamite to reveal aspects of the compound, and as a result, he’s credited with bestowing Lubaantun’s current name which translates as “Place of the Fallen Rocks.”
What is the Best Way to Experience Lubaatun?
For national monuments (such as Lubaatun), the Belize Government requires that you be accompanied by a licensed-trained tour guide.  This is not only for your safety, but the governments way of protecting their historical monuments.  
What is the Best Time of Year to Visit?
A visit at any time of year is appropriate because even rain won’t obstruct sightseeing. That said, be cautious during your visit if it’s raining because wet stone can make walking a slippery experience.
Where is Lubaantun located in Belize?
Lubaantun is located north of the Colombia River, one mile past the village of San Pedro Colombia, and is accessible by public transportation. From Belmopan, take the Hummingbird Highway for 45 miles to the junction of the Southern Highway Exit.  Turn right unto the Southern Highway and travel an additional 70 miles (2 hours) until you reach the Silver Creek cut off.  Travel through the villages of San Miguel and San Pedro Columbia. Exit right on the all weather gravel road and continue for about 1 1/2 miles until you reach the reserve.

Facts About Lubaantun

  • The large pyramids and residences are made of  stone blocks with no mortar binding them together.
  • The buildings on top of the pyramids were made from perishable materials rather than masonry and hence do not remain.
  • The name is Maya for “Place of Fallen Stones.”
  • The site which named the Rio Grande Ruins was renamed Lubaantun by Dr. Thomas Gann in 1924.
  • Intensive excavations were conducted between 1915 and 1927 which yielded a wealth of information on the ancient Maya of Southern Belize.
  • Notable finds include 3 carved ball courts discovered by R. E. Merwin which are housed at the Peabody Museum of Harvard University. 
  • In 1924 Gann returned to Lubaantun along with F.A. Mitchell-Hedges, where the latter claimed to have unearthed the Crystal Skull of Doom at the site.
  • While the archaeology of Lubaantun was greatly expounded, numerous artifacts from Lubaantun are now held at the British Museum.
  • Like other sites in the south of Belize, Lubaantun was built without the use of mortar and the superstructures were constructed from perishable materials and do not remain today.
  • Few carved monuments were found in comparison to nearby sites such as Nim Li Punit and Pusilha however many ceramic figurines and ocarinas of superb quality have been unearthed.

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