Mayan Route

OVERVIEW

Walk through the excavated ruins of two of the important Mayan sites in El Salvador. To reach the communities, you will drive through beautiful volcanic terrain that shows how centuries of violent eruptions have shaped the countryside. Further evidence will be apparent in the Mayan agricultural community San Andrés, which volcanic debris covered during a 1658 eruption. As you wander through the excavated archaeological park, you will discover the ceremonial roles of the pyramids and how the palaces in San Andrés were constructed with adobe bricks, plaster and gravel. Hardened volcanic ash was also used. Nearby, you will find Joya de Cerén, a Mayan farming community that suffered a similar fate. Known as the Pompeii of the Americas, the World Heritage site features excavated religious buildings, residences and storehouses, all constructed with compressed clay. The many artifacts lend insight into the Mayan culture.

HIGHLIGHTS
• Meander through the excavated ruins in the ancient Mayan community San Andrés.
• Discover how centuries of volcanic activity have shaped the surrounding landscape.
• Learn even more while browsing the ruins in Joya de Cerén, the Pompeii of the Americas.

HELPFUL HINTS
• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.