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In northern Belize, Altun Ha is one of the most accessible Mayan sites and is the inspiration for the branding of the nation’s beer, Belikin.  Translating as ‘Rockstone Pond’, it was a significant agricultural trading community and had a population of 100,000 at its peak between 200 to 900 AD.

Today visitors can witness two ceremonial structures surrounded by temples.  The restored structure of the Temple of the Masonry Altars takes its name from the ceremonial offerings of burnt  and smashed jade. It was here that the most valuable piece of Mayan art was discovered – the head of the sun god Kinich Ahau. Weighing more than 10 pounds, this national treasure was carved from a solid block of green jade and is now kept in a vault at the Belize Bank.