This name means “Black Jaguar” in maya, it is considered as the most important mayan center of the East of Yucatán, taking place as a main activity center during the Late Classic Period. It was a great city during the prehispanic period, it was formed by approx. 12 square meters in which center we can find a sacred space of approx. 1 Km where the population’s elite resided. This city was founded by Coch CalBalam or Ek Balam (Dark or Black Jaguar). Ek Balam doesn’t resemble any other known archeological site, it has a ver peculiar architecture with a great variety of features in its buildings. We can observe fragmented stelles with characters seated on their thrones, impressing vaulted constructions, a magnificient mayan arch that functiones as entrance or access door to this place, its entrance is protected by two walls. In its interior we can find the edifications of the ceremonial center, El Palacio Oval, El Juego de Pelota, La Acrópolis, Las Pirámides Gemelas. This magnificient place is distiguished by the prehispanic mural paintings that decorate its constructions as amazings works of art, with monochromatic designs reflecting important moments for the city.
Location:
Located at 180 Km from Mérida, through the Highway 180 Valladolid-Tizimín.
History:
From the year 300 B.C. until the spaniards arrival.
