5 Belizean Archaeology Pages to Follow
Ever wonder what archaeology research is about or what people' dig' at archaeological sites? Archaeology is a scientific research process that uses the stuff that people owned (material remains) to rebuild the way people used to live. That means archaeologists need to 'get to' these 'belongings'. You have to dig (excavate) and remove the accumulated soils and plant life to find these objects that can help us understand how people lived and interacted with their environment many years ago.
Every year about 20 archaeological research projects are conducted in Belize. Here are our 5 favourite projects to follow on social media.
Fun acronyms are a must when naming archaeological research projects, and the Stann Creek Regional Archaeology Project is no exception. They post cool behind-the-scenes photos on Facebook and Instagram, but our favourite content is their weekly field blogs. These blogs are less stuffy, academic pieces and more conversational talking to a friend who is really excited about their work. Written by different project members, you get various insights into their projects, research interests and experiences.
2. Chan Chich Archaeological Project
Up in Northern Belize, the Chan Chich Archaeological Project has been quietly putting out quality content on Instagram. The field photos of their archaeological finds give a glimpse into the types of artefacts they are recovering. But the real draw is their weekly excavation update Reels. Perfectly narrated and informative, it's the best way to engage with an archaeology research project - if you don't like to read.
We are looking forward to more content from Normans Temple - who is Norman, and why is it his temple!?
3. Ka'kabish Archaeologycal Research Project
Located in the Orange Walk District, beside Lamanai, Ka'kabish archaeological site is a small centre with a big character. The closest village is Indian Church, where the internet comes and goes as it pleases, so posts on this page are not regular. However, the combination of field photos, researcher profiles and weekend adventures give a lovely glimpse into what life in the field is like. We are already looking forward to posts from their next field season.
4. Lamanai Archaeology Project
We can't talk about Ka'kabish without talking about Lamanai, and their socials are no exception. Lamanai Archaeology Project (not to be confused with the socials for the Archaeological Reserve or the Ecolodge) is jam-packed with useful information. We don't know what we like more, their informative posts on Facebook or their website that has everything you need to know about Lamanai (plus a few things about Altun Ha and Marco Gonzalez). We are keep coming back for their 'Through the Years' posts because we love seeing how Lamanai has changed with their contribution.
5. Rio Frio Regional Archaeological Project
RiFRap (Rif - Rap) is the new archaeological research project on the block, and we are here for it. Located in Western Belize and exploring ancient Maya use of Caves in the Rio Frio area, their content is anything but cold. We absolutely love a partially crowd-funded research project. It brings out the passion in the research. Digital reconstructions, YouTube videos, field posts and live discussions, do we need to say more!?
Written by Sylvia Batty