Is this cave the subterranean portal to Mayan culture?

The Barton Creek Cave in the deep forest of Belize is a geological wonder as well as a very interesting archaeological site. When we think about Belize, the first thought that comes to mind is that of the pristine beaches. The Blue Hole is here too, but it’s the beach life that wins every time. But we are here to bring your attention to a side of Belize not everyone is familiar with.

The deep jungles of Belize hold several stories, one of which is that of the enigmatic Mayan Civilisation. The Barton Barton Creek Cave is something that will take you to the world of the ancient Maya. Quite literally too.


This remarkable cave system has pockets where researchers have found archaeological evidence that suggest sacred rituals, beliefs, and way of life of the ancient Maya.

Geological Marvel of Barton Creek Cave

Barton Creek Cave is located in the Cayo District of Belize. It is a massive underground river cave that will leave you speechless. Adventure enthusiasts will find this cave visit very interesting. It involves canoeing.



The single passage entry may look nothing spectacular, but get inside the cave and you will be greeted with the sight of colossal chambers and numerous stalactites and stalagmites. If you follow the waterways inside the cave, it will bring you to the labyrinthine passages. Needless to say, this would be a guided trip.

The Mayan connection

What’s most striking about the Barton Creek Cave is that, in the past, the cave was a sacred site for the Maya people. And by that we mean a site for burial and other religious ceremonies. As per studies, the Maya used the site for over a thousand years. Several remains of ancient pottery, and vessels used for offerings were found alongside human remains within the cave.



If we look into the Mayan mythology, we will come across the name Xibalba. It is the underworld or a place of fear. As per Mayan beliefs, caves are the gateway, an underground portal to Xibalba. Barton Creek Cave must have been one such portal for the Maya. No wonder, several pieces of artefacts were found inside the cave. Some of these artefacts were weapons, potteries, and some jewelleries.



It’s a shame that a lot of artefacts were also stolen from the cave.

Also: What’s inside the Sarawak Chamber, world's largest cave chamber?

Exploring the cave

Visitors can visit the cave on canoes! There are guided canoe tours, and they are the most popular ways to explore the cave’s interior. The waterway is usually calm, and it meanders through every nook and corner of the cave. Imagine, this was where once the ancient Maya people conducted sacred ceremonies.

1. Where is Barton Creek Cave located?
   Barton Creek Cave is located in Belize. It is also an important archaeological site.
2. How to explore Barton Creek Cave?
   It's best to explore Barton Creek Cave on a canoe. The stream is very calm, perfect for a smooth canoeing experience.
3. Is Barton Creek Cave related to Maya civilisation?
   Barton Creek Cave is a sacred site for the Maya people. And by that we mean a site for burial and other religious ceremonies. As per studies, the Maya used the site for over a thousand years.