Zaculeu
ZACULEU – "White Earth", Post-Classic Period,
Huehuetenango, Guatemala

This relatively small site, located just outside of Huehuetenango in the western highlands of Guatemala, is surrounded by distant hills on all sides. Architecturally speaking, it is not Mayan in appearance. Constructed by the Mam Maya, who inhabit the region, the site reflects architectural influences from Central Mexico.

Most notably, these influences from Central Mexico are visible in the beam and mortar, the circular columns, the alfardas and the divided stairways in some of the structures. Today, most of the central buildings and the ballcourt have been consolidated and the white plastered surface, although weathered, is devoid of any artistic detail. Overall, the site has a look of artificiality; nonetheless, it is worth a visit.

The United Fruit Company did most of the serious excavation at Zaculeu during 1940's. The site is littered with grassy mounds, still hiding other buildings not yet explored. At the entrance to the site there is a small building that houses some of the artifacts discovered at the site.

In the center of the site is Structure 1, which dates back to the early Post-Classic period. It is from atop this structure that I managed to draw the accompanying illustration of Structure 4. I also had time to illustrate Structure 4 from another angle as well as the Ballcourt before the sky turned a muddy grey and the heavens opened.

Needless to say, I arrived back to town completely soaked. If that wasn't enough, my hotel room sprang a massive leak, flooding the room and leaving me and my belongings marooned on one of the most uncomfortable beds I have ever tried to sleep on. Still, no complaints and I drifted off thinking of how I was going to get to Nebaj the following day.