Oxtankah is a fascinating Maya archaeological site located near the Belize border, just outside Chetumal in southern Quintana Roo. Perched near the scenic Bay of Chetumal, the Oxtankah Maya archaeological site offers a unique blend of coastal influence and inland Maya cultural traditions. Occupied for over a thousand years, the site played a significant role in regional trade and political networks.
Oxtankah is especially remarkable for its historical layers. In addition to classic Maya temples, plazas, and ceremonial platforms, the site features the remains of a 16th-century Spanish chapel, one of the earliest Christian structures in the region. This rare combination highlights the transition from ancient Maya civilization to early Spanish contact, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the area’s history.
Set within tropical vegetation and wetlands, Oxtankah offers a peaceful and uncrowded experience, perfect for travelers interested in archaeology and history. Its proximity to Chetumal makes it easily accessible, yet it remains largely undiscovered compared to more famous Maya sites. Visitors can explore pyramids, plazas, and ceremonial platforms while enjoying scenic views of the nearby coastline.
Oxtankah is an ideal stop for cultural explorers seeking an authentic perspective on the southern Maya world and its connections to the Caribbean and Central America.
