When people hear of the Maya, they often think of the ancient Mesoamerican civilization that thrived from 2000 BCE to its collapse around 1500 CE when Europeans arrived in the “New World”. Today, in Belize and surrounding countries, the Maya again are thriving, contributing members of their communities, often living in harmony with ancient traditions.
A Very Brief History
Deep in the jungles and lowlands of Central America the ancient Mayan civilization stretched from the Yucatan peninsula in Mexico west to Guatemala and south to Honduras and El Salvador. At the center was what is now Belize. The iconic features of this period are the massive stone pyramids built within sprawling city-states. Belize boasts over 33 ancient Mayan sites of Belize.
Like other civilizations, the Maya had regional alliances and periodic wars, elaborate trading networks and sporting events. They developed an intricate writing system comprising hieroglyphics. Stories of their kings and battles were chiseled on stone stelae. Beautiful works of art including carved figurines, painted pottery and beautifully woven fabrics were created by their artisans. The Maya excelled in astronomy and mathematics — including inventing the concept of zero around 4 CE. Even the history of chocolate can be traced to the Maya. Whether due to over population, disease, soil depletion, climate change or other factors, this elaborate civilization collapsed around 1500 CE with small communities living throughout Central America.
The Belizean Maya of Today
In modern Belize the Maya account for approximately 11% of the population and can be found throughout the country, however, they are concentrated in the west and south. One of the closest Mayan villages to Hamanasi is Maya Centre near the entrance to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary & Jaguar Preserve. Agriculture is a common profession for many Maya, as well as the production of arts and crafts. Tourism employs many Maya, including many of Hamanasi’s employees. For the first time, the new Governor-General of Belize is a Mayan woman, Froyla Tzalam. As a Mopan Mayan leader she aims to increase awareness and forge closer ties between indigenous communities and greater populations.
Crafts, Culture & Cuisine
Like their ancestors, today’s Maya create beautiful arts and crafts. Baskets made of Jippi Jappa leaves found abundantly in the rainforest are woven in assorted styles and sizes. Jewelry is made from beads and seeds. Many pottery vessels and slate carvings have Mayan themes. Continuing ancient traditions, Mayan women embroider fabric with floral and rainforest designs and weave colorful runners, purses and bags.
Music and dance plays an important part in the Mayan culture. A sacred dance is the Deer Dance with men wearing elaborate costumes and masks. The marimba and Mayan harp are traditional instruments. Corn is at the center of the Mayan diet, along with beans, squash, plantains and peppers. Since the Maya grow much of their own food, they have delicious dishes including tamales, Caldo de pollo, relleno negro and pibil. Many of these are served at Hamanasi’s restaurant.
Language
Did you know that three different Mayan languages are spoken in Belize today? Yucatec is spoken in the northern part of Belize near Mexico. In the west and south Mopan and Kekchi are dominant languages. Below are several phrases in each Mayan Language:
English, Mopan, Kekchi, Yucatec
Hello, D’yo’os, Chasaq huil, Ba’ax ka wa’alik?
Goodbye, asto kinwaleech, Jo’wan chick, Ka ka’at
Thank you, B’otik, Bantiox, Dios bo’otik
Yes, hahah, jeje, je’el
No, Ma’, ne’aa, nah
Experiencing the Maya with Hamanasi
At Hamanasi many employees are proud Mayans. Our restaurant serves many delicious Mayan dishes. Additionally, we offer several adventures where you can learn more about the Maya, including the Magical Mayan History Tour, Ancient & Living Mayan Culture, Mayflower Jungle & Waterfall Hike, Cave & Jungle Adventure, Cave Tubing, Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave and Che’il Chocolate Tour. While in Belize, we hope that you will take the opportunity to meet Mayans, try their food, explore their ancient history and learn about their rich culture that thrives today!
