Iximché near Tecpán is one of the two remaining Mayan ruins in the Guatemala Highlands. It is easy to visit Iximché given that it is within driving distance from Antigua and Guatemala City. Most visitors to Antigua are often not aware that a visit to a Mayan ruins is a pleasant day trip from Antigua. Although Iximché ruins are modest in size compared to Tikal, this well kept site has an exciting history and it is well worth a visit. Iximché was the capital of the Kaqchikel Maya kingdom until it was captured by the Spanish in 1524.
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| Main Plaza at Iximché © Spaswinefood |
Iximché takes its name from the Mayan name for ramón tree, also known as corn tree. Today at Iximché you will find the ruins of three major plaza areas and the evidence of destruction of a fourth.
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| Iximché © Spaswinefood |
There is a well preserved ball court on the main plaza. We also viewed another ball court on a second plaza.
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| Iximché ball court on the main plaza © Spaswinefood |
We toured the Iximché temples with a local Spanish speaking guide who was very helpful in explaining details about the site. In Particular we visited three plaza areas, which he described as Plaza A, Plaza B and Plaza C.
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| Iximché temple © Spaswinefood |
We saw a ceremonial area on the main plaza.
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| Iximché cermonal altar © Spaswinefood |
While touring Iximché we were introduced to some of the trees (Ramón and Pine) and the importance they played in the Mayan world.
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| Pine trees at Iximché ruins © Spaswinefood |
Today at Iximché you will find pine trees. The pine trees are riddled with acorn put there by woodpeckers. The industrious woodpeckers (carpinteros) were highly valued by the early Mayans.
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| Pine tree at Iximché © Spaswinefood |
As in the case of many ruins throughout the world we get to see evidence of destruction. This is true for one temple area at Iximché. It appears that early settlers may have removed some of the stones for construction.
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| Iximché ruins © Spaswinefood |
Iximché has a small museum with some displays. Since a visit to the museum in included in your entrance fee it is well worth a stop. The model of the Iximché site at the museum is definitely worth a look.
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| Model of Iximché at museum © Spaswinefood |
The day we visited Iximché a shaman was performing a ceremony for a group of tourists. Our guide suggested that we observe from a distance and not take any pictures. We were happy to oblige. At the end of the ceremony there was a Mayan meal served to the group, which participated in the ceremony. We were told that there were many ceremonies performed at Iximché daily.
Time for Lunch
At Iximché, near the entrance there is a nice area for a picnic lunch. This time on our way back to Antigua we stopped at Hacienda Tecpán for lunch. Moon Travel Guide describes Hacienda Tecpán as one of the best restaurant options in the Tecpán area.
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Hacienda Tecpan © Spaswinefood
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Hacienda Tecpan © Spaswinefood
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Hacienda Tecpán © Spaswinefood
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Tortillas at Hacienda Tecpan © Spaswinefood
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Hacienda Tecpán has a popular lunch buffet that most people order. Not a good option for vegetarians but, there are a few options on the menu.
Here is what visitors to Iximché have posted on Tripadvisor. You will also find articles on Iximché by Carribean Experience, Tommy Vawter and others. I always enjoy discovering new places and the best food stops in the Guatemalan Highlands. Whether you drive, take a bus or a shuttle you will find the route colorful. I look forward to writing about my Guatemalan experiences at Spaswinefood, or you can visit my travel column at the Examiner.
Sharon
Antigua, Guatemala
February 2013
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