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Cihuatan

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Historical site
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Cihuatan (El Salvador)

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Cihuatán is one of El Salvador's largest archaeological excavation sites and is considered one of the most important centers of the Early Postclassic period in Central America. The city was founded around 900 AD following the collapse of the Classic Maya centers and spans an area of approximately three square kilometers. Cihuatán was a cosmopolitan settlement inhabited by various ethnic groups, occupying a strategic location in the Acelhuate Valley. The complex is divided into two main areas: the ceremonial center featuring pyramids and ball courts, and the residential district of the upper class. Particularly noteworthy is the Western Ceremonial District, which houses a seven-tiered pyramid that was once decorated. The city was destroyed by a fire around 1200 AD and subsequently abandoned, allowing archaeologists today to study daily life. Finds of ceramics in the Mixteca-Puebla style demonstrate extensive trade contacts reaching as far as modern-day Mexico. Today, the site serves as an important archaeological park for researching cultural changes in Mesoamerica.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C232526272624252424232223
Rain mm989321521861511892181744318

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The archaeological site of Cihuatan is open to the public and can be explored on foot. Visitors can walk through the plazas and pyramids, though some areas may be restricted.
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Typical hours
Typical opening hours run from morning until late afternoon, usually daily. It is advisable to check the current schedule before your visit.
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Photography
Photography for personal use is generally allowed throughout the site. Tripods may require a special permit obtained at the entrance.
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Time needed
A visit typically takes one to two hours to see the main structures. Allow extra time if you also plan to visit the on-site museum.
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Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Joya de Cerén for a full day of ancient history. The two sites are easily reachable from each other by car.
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Getting there
The site is located about 45 minutes north of San Salvador by car. Regular buses run from the capital to the nearby town of Suchitoto.
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Insider tip
Arrive early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds. Bring water and sunscreen as there is limited shade on the site.

History & landmarks

Post-Classical

900

Geography

Coordinates
13.98000, -89.17000

Facts

  • The name Cihuatan means Place of the Woman in the Pipil language.
  • Located 37 kilometers north of San Salvador near the town of Aguilares.
  • Includes two major ceremonial centers known as West and East.
  • More than 150 structures have been uncovered in excavations so far.
  • Home to the largest pre-Columbian ball court found in El Salvador.
  • Designated as a National Archaeological Park in 1976.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Apopa IndustryApopa Industry<1 km · WExplore →
OcotepequeOcotepeque2 km · SEExplore →
San Jacinto BattlefieldSan Jacinto Battlefield2 km · NExplore →
Lake IzabalLake Izabal2 km · EExplore →
National Palace of El SalvadorNational Palace of El Salvador2 km · SExplore →
Iguana Research Station CopanIguana Research Station Copan3 km · NEExplore →
San Sebastián SalitrilloSan Sebastián Salitrillo4 km · NExplore →
Santa Teresa (Toledo)Santa Teresa (Toledo)4 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Cihuatan (1)

Cihuatán📍 landmark

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Is Cihuatán a large site?
Yes, it is one of the country's largest archaeological sites.
Do I need a guide?
It is advisable to hire a guide for the historical background.
Is the area accessible?
Only partially, the paths are somewhat uneven and sandy.
Is there shade on-site?
There is very little shade, so a hat and sunscreen are important.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, private photography is permitted everywhere.
Cihuatan: where is it located?
Cihuatan is located in El Salvador.
Cihuatan: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Cihuatan: why is it worth visiting?
Cihuatán is one of El Salvador's largest archaeological excavation sites and is considered one of the most important centers of the Early Postclassic period in Central America.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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History & landmarks

Devil&#39;s Door — Cihuatan (El Salvador)
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Monumento al Divino Salvador del Mundo — Cihuatan (El Salvador)
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Cathedral of Santa Ana — Cihuatan (El Salvador)
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Nature

Lake Ilopango — Cihuatan (El Salvador)
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Cerron Grande Reservoir — Cihuatan (El Salvador)
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The largest body of water in El Salvador, crucial for hydroelectric power.
Lempa River — Cihuatan (El Salvador)
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The longest and most important river in El Salvador.

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🗺️
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