Top 3 things to do at U Chan Muul Yaax K'aax Museum in Belize
Nohoch tata Pedro Carrillo giving a tour to visitors at the Museum © U Chan Muul Yaax K'aax, San Lazaro Village, Belize
The U Chan Muul Yaax K'aax Yucatec Maya Museum in Belize's Orange Walk District is part of the Holpatín Trail experience by the Mundo Maya Organisation. The Yucatec Maya Holpatin Trail covers the area of Orange Walk, starting from Orange Walk Town all the way south to the Archaeological site of Lamanai. Visitors can discover the archaeological site of Cuellos, Lamanai Archaeological Reserve and experience the Pok-Ta-Pok ball game in Yo Creek as well as the U Chan Muul Yaax K'aax Yucatec Maya Museum in San Lazaro Village.
The latest addition to the Holpatín trail is U Chan Muul Yaax K'aax Yucatec Maya Museum in San Lazaro Village. The small community museum was founded a few years ago, involving families and collections from the village to promote traditional Maya culture. Whether you want to spend more time to really discover the area or just on a short visit, here are the top 3 things to do at U Chan Muul Yaax K'aax in San Lazaro.
1.Visit the Caste War Exhibition
Caste War Exhibition © U Chan Muul Yaax K'aax, San Lazaro Village, Belize
The Museum's primary collection showcases history from the Maya Social War (Guerra de Castas) from 1847 between the Maya and Spanish people in the Yucatán. The war has a historical significance in the community today as many Yucatec Maya people migrated to Belize during this period.
2.Walk along the Folklore Trail
Ixchel Mayan Godess of birth, fertility and medicine at the Botanical Garden of U Chan Muul Yaax K'aax. © Adriel Carrillo
Be part of Maya folklore by discovering the trail with the Alux, Xtabai and La Llorona. Encounter the Ixchel and Yumkaax Mayan gods in the botanical garden and experience the fun folk stories.
3.Try traditional cuisine
Traditional meal containing avocado, rice, beans and chicken with chaya-citrus juice blend. © U Chan Muul Yaax K'aax, San Lazaro Village, Belize
The cuisine and drinks are made from 100% natural ingredients and traditionally prepared by Yucatec women. Give it a try and savour the delicious food at U Chan Muul Yaax K'aax.
An unexpected little Yucatec visitor stopped by at the museum to learn more about his culture. © U Chan Muul Yaax K'aax, San Lazaro Village, Belize
In front of a traditional Maya home © U Chan Muul Yaax K'aax, San Lazaro Village, Belize
The Museum is still working on many future projects. With your help, we look forward to always innovating and making our community museum enjoyable, entertaining and most importantly, educational to our visitors.
Contact
As the U Chan Muul Yaax K'aa Museum website is still in progress, the best way to get in touch is via the U Chan Muul Yaax K'aax Facebook page or via email to dbvoy@hotmail.com. As an alternative, contact Heritage Education Network Belize or the Belizean Ministry of Tourism directly.
Written by Adriel Carrillo