9

We are surrounded by Mayan ruins here.  A once great and powerful nation with a greater population than what is currently here in Belize.  Discussing the possible reasons for its demise with Emmanuel (Paula's brother), he said the European diseases or genocide probably occurred.  Rog said that it died out before the Spanish came...his quick response was,  "Where did you read that?  In an European history book??"  Sure plants a question in my mind.  We headed out to Xunatumich but the ferry that crossed the river to the site was closed as the river was flooded.  Usually the ferry starts operating in Dec but as we have noted, the rainy season just hasn't quit.  What a strain it is on the locals that depend on tourist for a living.  We headed to another site, Cahal Pech which is still being excavated.  We spoke with some students from the Univ of Montana who were paying so they could dig on the site.  I hope they were getting college credit...though they were certainly having a good time whatever the case.   It was fascinating to watch as they slowly uncovered the 1500 year old bits of pottery...remnants of the grandeur of the 2000 year Mayan civilization.  

#9 P.S.  The Maya had their currency right...it was cocao bean based (CHOCOLATE!!)