Belize Benque Viejo del Carmen: A History of Ancient Traditions and Culture
Belize Benque Viejo del Carmen is a small town in western Belize near the border with Guatemala. It is one of the oldest settlements in the country, with a long and rich history that dates back to the pre-Columbian era. The town is home to a variety of cultures, including the Maya, Garifuna, and Mestizo. It is also a popular tourist destination due to its proximity to Guatemala and its many attractions, such as the Benque Viejo del Carmen Archaeological Reserve, the Benque Viejo del Carmen National Park, and the Benque Viejo del Carmen Museum of Anthropology and Archaeology.
The history of Benque Viejo del Carmen can be traced back to the pre-Columbian era, when the area was inhabited by the Maya. The Maya had a strong presence in the region and built a number of structures, including a temple complex at the site of the modern-day town. The Maya were also known for their advanced agricultural practices, and the area around Benque Viejo del Carmen was used for growing crops such as maize, beans, and squash.
During the colonial period, the area was colonized by the Spanish and the town was founded in 1724. The town was named after the Spanish governor of the region, Don Benque Viejo del Carmen. The town was a key center of trade and commerce, and it was also an important stop on the Camino Real, a trade route that connected Belize to Guatemala.
In the 19th century, the town became a center of the Garifuna culture, which is a mix of African, Caribbean, and Indigenous cultures. The Garifuna are known for their unique music, dance, and food, and Benque Viejo del Carmen is home to a number of Garifuna cultural festivals and events. The town is also home to a number of Garifuna restaurants, which serve traditional dishes such as hudut (a fish stew) and tapou (a plantain-based dish).
Today, Benque Viejo del Carmen is a popular tourist destination due to its location near the border with Guatemala and its many attractions. The town is home to a number of archaeological sites, including the Benque Viejo del Carmen Archaeological Reserve and the Benque Viejo del Carmen National Park. There is also the Benque Viejo del Carmen Museum of Anthropology and Archaeology, which houses artifacts from the area’s past. The town is also home to a number of festivals and events, such as the annual Garifuna Cultural Festival and the Benque Viejo del Carmen Music Festival.
Benque Viejo del Carmen is a unique town with a rich history and culture. It is a great place to visit for anyone interested in learning about the history and culture of Belize.