Known
about for years by the local Maya, the archaeological establishment
didn't learn of Uxbenka's existence until 1984, when
Belmopan received reports of looting. Though not extensive, the site has cut terrace stones that
have never been found outside of the Toledo District.
Uxbenka
is a small ceremonial site that consists of one main
plaza and a series of smaller ones. Six structures line the main plaza with the tallest rising
8 meters high. 21
stelae have been found here, six of them carved. Outside of the center the site extends two to three kilometres.
After
the reports of looting, Mr. Placido Ash, caretaker/guide of
Nim Li Punit, checked a site near the village of Santa Cruz
and found two sculpted stelae. This event made known to the world Uxbenka's existence.
The
site lies just outside of Santa Cruz village, about 3 miles
west of the village of San Antonio. It is recommended that you rent a car for the trip. |