10 Things to Do at Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site, Mejicanos El Salvador
The Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site, located in the small town of Mejicanos, El Salvador, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most important archaeological sites in the Americas. This ancient city was buried by a volcanic eruption in the 7th century AD and remained untouched until its discovery in 1976. Since then, it has been carefully excavated and studied, providing researchers with invaluable insight into the lifestyle of the ancient Mesoamerican people. Today, Joya de Cerén is open to the public, offering visitors the chance to explore this fascinating archaeological site and learn about its rich history. Here are 10 things to do at Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site.
1. Visit the Museum of Joya de Cerén: The Museum of Joya de Cerén is located near the archaeological site and provides visitors with an overview of the history of the site and its inhabitants. The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia displays that explain the history and culture of the ancient Mesoamerican people.
2. Take a Guided Tour of the Site: Guided tours of the archaeological site are available for visitors who want to learn more about the history and culture of the ancient city. The tour will take you through the different structures and artifacts, explaining their significance and providing insight into the lives of the people who lived here.
3. Explore the Remains of the Ancient City: The archaeological site features the remains of the ancient city, including the remains of houses, storage facilities, and other structures. Visitors can explore these ruins and get an up-close look at how the ancient Mesoamerican people lived.
4. Visit the Botanical Garden: The Botanical Garden at Joya de Cerén is home to a variety of plants and trees, many of which are native to the region. Here, visitors can learn about the local flora and fauna and get a glimpse into the ancient Mesoamerican’s relationship with nature.
5. Check Out the Ancient Artifacts: The archaeological site features a variety of artifacts, including pottery, tools, and other objects that were used by the ancient Mesoamerican people. Visitors can explore these artifacts and get a better understanding of the culture and lifestyle of the people who lived here.
6. Participate in a Workshop: The Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site offers a variety of workshops and activities for visitors to participate in. These workshops focus on topics such as traditional crafts, cooking, and more, providing visitors with an immersive experience in the ancient culture.
7. Take a Hike: The archaeological site is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a variety of hiking trails for visitors to explore. These trails will take you through the surrounding jungle and provide you with a glimpse of the area’s natural beauty.
8. Visit the Local Markets: The town of Mejicanos is home to several local markets, where visitors can purchase souvenirs and other items. Here, visitors can find handcrafted items such as jewelry, pottery, and more, all made by local artisans.
9. Enjoy a Meal at a Local Restaurant: The town of Mejicanos is home to several restaurants, offering visitors the chance to enjoy a meal in a traditional setting. Here, visitors can sample the local cuisine and get a taste of the region’s flavors.
10. Attend a Cultural Event: The town of Mejicanos hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music and dance performances, art exhibitions, and more. These events provide visitors with a unique opportunity to experience the culture of the region.
Visiting Joya de Cerén Archaeological Site is a great way to learn more about the history and culture of the ancient Mesoamerican people. From exploring the ruins to attending cultural events, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this fascinating archaeological site.