You can’t imagine the cultural richness that El Salvador has in store for everyone who visits this beautiful Central American country.
We are interested in visiting Tazumal, an extraordinary archaeological park that helps to understand the fantastic development of the indigenous peoples who have occupied this locality since immemorial.
TAZUMAL - Archaeological Ruins of El Salvador. Photo by ElSalvadorViajar.
Tazumal Data
| Country: | El Salvador |
|---|---|
| Department: | Santa Ana |
| Category: | Archaeological Sites |
| Route: | Mayan Route |
| Culture: | Mayan |
| Period: | Classic/Postclassic |
Location of Tazumal
Location and history of Tazumal
The ruins of Tazumal are the oldest archaeological site in Central America. They are located in the municipality of Chalchuapa, in the department of Santa Ana, only 80 kilometers from the country’s capital, San Salvador.
History tells that for more than four millennia; it was inhabited by the “Olmecs”; there is evidence that the “Mayas” was in these lands, and finally, presume that the “Toltecs” was its last occupants when in the year 1200 A.D. they definitively abandoned these lands.
The first explorations in Tazumal were made around 1892 when the Salvadoran scholar Santiago Barberena rescued three pieces and gave them to the National Museum of Anthropology. Still, the real discoverer of this beautiful complex was the researcher Stanley Boggs when he began his studies due to the deterioration of the structures.
What to see in Tazumal
You will be surprised to know what you can discover when you visit the Tazumal Archaeological Site. Among the group of structures, you will see the pyramids in their splendor, temples, and tombs, among others.
As soon as you enter the place, you notice that the atmosphere changes because it seems to become more solemn. We are entering what is believed to be the “place where souls are consumed.”
Stanley H. Boggs Museum
It is located from the front of the pyramid to our left; it is small but very organized, so you can visit it when you enter or on your way out after going through all the ancient installations. Anyway, we will see sculptures and diverse objects collected in several excavations.
Main Pyramid
With its being more than 20 meters high, it stands upright, still showing its beauty; although the use of cement on its exterior is discussed, it must have done this to preserve its integrity.
In its interior, it discovered tombs, precious stones, and everyday items for the inhabitants.
Second Pyramid of Tazumal
It is much smaller than the previous one; at the time, it had a temple on top, which collapsed in 2004.
Also, it is observed what could have been a patio for the ball game.
Stone of the Triumphs
An Extraordinary rock has petroglyphs engraved on its four faces.
Tazumal Stela
Also known as the “Virgin,” it is the most fundamental piece found here; it is a sculpture more than 2 meters high, decorated with attire and holding a scepter.
How to get to Tazumal
If you already have in your travel plan to know this splendid locality, you must reach the town of Santa Ana. by the CA-1 road, and there take the bus that will leave you at the entrance of the archaeological ruins of Tazumal.
If you travel by car, you should know that the trip from the capital, San Salvador, will take about 1 hour. Still, the complex has no internal parking, so you can leave the vehicle in the places indicated nearby, which have security personnel.
Recommendations for visiting Tazumal
For a pleasant stay in this place, you should consider the following suggestions and observations, which will make you have an unforgettable day.
- The Tazumal complex is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm, remaining closed on Mondays.
- The entrance fee per person is $1 for Salvadoran and Central American citizens and $3 for foreigners.
- Please bring a hat, light clothing, and sunscreen since we are in a tropical country with the Pacific Ocean nearby.
- The best time of the year to go on this tour is between April and November, when the weather is much more relaxed.
- There are areas where you can have a snack and bring your sandwiches and enough water to enjoy the environment.
- Remember to pick up and dispose of your garbage in the garbage containers outside the park.
- In the surroundings, you will find food stands and souvenirs that you can buy as gifts for your loved ones.
Nearby places to visit
There are many other places close to Tazumal that you can visit while touring the Chalchuapa area in Santa Ana, El Salvador.
For example, we have the pre-Columbian ruins of Casa Blanca, another open-air museum in which, crossing a small forest, you can see 6 Mayan structures, apparently related to their cults. It owes its name to the farm where this ancient space is.
In addition, there are classes to learn the indigo technique and how to produce this natural dye.
Nearby is El Trapiche, a site with more than 3,000 years of history. In this place, was built the largest pyramid in the country.
Some say it was a ceremonial center or a cemetery since found fragments of sculptures; in another building, now destroyed, the remains of approximately 30 supposedly sacrificed. Later the place was abandoned, and it was declared a National Monument.
A recreational pool complex was created on its grounds, taking advantage of the water springs to enjoy this natural destination with the family.
At Cuzcachapa Lagoon, we arrive at an oasis, where green areas surround a lake formed in a volcano’s cone. Fortunately, the tourist vortex has not yet arrived here, and you can share a day with children and friends.
As you will see, Santa Ana, especially the large sector of Tazumal, offers many alternatives for you to live and enjoy this fantastic village, full of charm and history.
Its natural spaces are the best opportunity to get to know these spectacular landscapes and the friendliness and beautiful welcome all Salvadorans offer.
