 |
Mayan
boys at Nim Li Punit |
Nim Li Punit is located just northeast of the village of
Indian Creek in the Toledo district. This site got its name
from the discovery of a carving on one of its many stelae,
which depicts a figure wearing a large headdress. “Nim
Li Punit” is Kekchi Maya for “the big hat”.
The stela upon which this carving appears is the longest
stela in Belize (Stela 14), and one of the tallest in the
Maya world. Though it was never erected, it is about 30
feet tall. The site is relatively small, but many of its
features suggest that it was an important religious and
political community. It’s strategic location between
the mountains and the seacoast facilitated trade.
 |
Stelae
House |
The site has been identified as a Late Classic site (700
– 900AD), with an estimated population of about 5000
– 7000 people. Nim Li Punit is characterized by the
discovery of its many stelae (quite the opposite from its
neighbor Lubaantun). Twenty-six stelae were found here,
seven of them carved. Most of the carvings are quite impressive,
and well preserved. They were found in the Plaza of the
Stelae, and the organization of this plaza suggests that
the area was used for making astronomical observations.
The original stelae are displayed in the Stelae House near
the Visitor’s center of the site.
Other important features of the site include a walled ball
court, and a Plaza of the Tombs. This was once a residential
area for the ruling family of Nim Li Punit. There are no
large structures, but the highest elevation is 67 meters.
The site on the hill overlooks the lowlands below, and on
a clear day, with exceptional vision, the coast can be seen
from the highest elevation.
 |
Shopping
for local crafts |
Because of its proximity to the Kekchi village of Indian
Creek, many of the village’s children walk up the
hill to chat with the visitors. Many of the women bring
items for sale, including woodcarvings, bead jewelry, ceramics,
and tapestry. The friendly children will talk about their
lifestyles, and share stories of their family. This is a
nice place to meet new friends, and learn a couple of Kekchi
words.
Places nearby: 
Interests:
