Nim Li Punit
Nim Li Punit is a small Maya site recently discovered in the Toledo District in 1978. Archaeologists have determined that Nim Li Punit was occupied from the Middle Classic Period (400-700 AD) through the Post Classic Period (800-1000 AD).
Located in the Toledo District, Nim Li Punit translated into english means "big hat". It's primary attractions are 20 plus stelae, 7 which are carved. The longest stela is 9.5 metres long and .5 metre wide and depicts a figure, presumably a ruler wearing a diadem or "big hat".
The site is divided into three groups known as the "West Group", the "East Group" and the "South Group". The most interesting of these three groups is the "South Group" which contains both the "Plaza of the Royal Tombs" and the "Plaza of the Stelae".
Archaelogists beleive that the "Plaza of the Royal Tombs" was a residence for the royal family. Three tombs dating between 700-800 AD were found here. The first tomb, discovered in 1986 contained 5 bodies, buried at varying times. Buried with these bodies were pottery, stingray spines, jade and carved stone. The second and third tomb were excavated in 1998. The third tomb contained 6 human bodies and a large animal, as well as several pieces of pottery. No bodies were found in the second tomb.
It is beleived that the "Plaza of the Stelae" was used as an astronomical observatory. One of the structures in the plaza is about 3 metres high, 65 metres long, and faces west. Along this structure are three markers strategically positioned to mark where the sun will rise on the mornings of the equinoxes and solstices.
Stelae 14 and 21, and two other wide stelae have been preserved in the Visitor's Centre at the entrance of Nim Li Punit. These are all in excellent condition.
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