Tak'alik Abaj, which in K'iche (a maya language) , means "Standing Stone" played an important role in the region's trade, maintained a very prolonged occupation from the Middle Pre-Classic to the Late Classic period and maintained very important contacts with other contemporary groups such as the Olmecs in the Gulf Coast of Mexico. Tak'alikAb'aj is one of the most important settlements in the southern coast of Guatemala and fortunately, thanks to the support of private individuals, has managed to preserve the central part of the settlement in excellent condition allowing the research and restoration of its main architectural manifestations and registration of its numerous monuments that present Olmec, Maya and local styles. This is why it can be characterized as being on the threshold between the Olmec and Maya cultures.
The Management category corresponds to a National Archaeological Park with an extension of 30 hectares. It has been protected since 1987 by the General Directorate of Cultural and Natural Heritage of the Ministry of Culture and Sports.
To date, more than 70 major buildings, 325 carved monuments and a rich collection of tombstones have been found, demonstrating the majesty of its ancient inhabitants. A few years ago, the burial of what is believed to be one of the last rulers of Tak'alikAb'aj was found.
Key features of Tak'alik Ab'aj:
Strategic location: Situated on the southwestern coast of Guatemala, it was a vital point for trade routes connecting the Pacific coast and the Isthmus of Tehuantepec between the mesoamerican.
Diverse influences: Tak'alik Ab'aj showcases a fascinating blend of Olmec and Maya civilizations, and local styles in its architecture, sculptures, and artifacts.
Enduring city: It standed almost 1700 years
Unesco world heritage site