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San Bartolo Murals
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The San Bartolo murals are among the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 21st century, located within a Maya site in Guatemala's Petén Department. Discovered accidentally in 2001 by archaeologist William Saturno, these frescoes date back to the Late Preclassic period, around 100 BC. The murals are celebrated for their extraordinary artistic sophistication and excellent state of preservation, depicting elaborate myths of the Maize God and the creation of the world. These findings overturned previous assumptions that early Maya civilization lacked complex religious and artistic systems. The scenes illustrate coronations and ritual offerings, providing a direct link between the divine world and the legitimacy of ruling elites. San Bartolo thus features a unique window into the early religious beliefs, political iconography, and mythological narratives of ancient Mesoamerica.
- Location: Guatemala
- Nearby: El Estor (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 24 | 26 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 23 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 104 | 53 | 44 | 34 | 126 | 232 | 152 | 175 | 198 | 243 | 163 | 125 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The site contains ancient Maya murals protected within structures; access is usually with a guide. Visitors can see the partially excavated murals in their original location.
Typical hours
The archaeological site typically opens from 8 AM to 4 PM, but hours may change. It is advisable to check with local authorities before visiting.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the site but generally no flash inside the mural chambers. Outdoor areas can be photographed freely.
Time needed
A visit takes about 1 to 2 hours to see the murals and surrounding ruins. Additional time for interpretation.
Combine with
The site is near other Mayan sites like Tikal and Yaxhá, but requires a dedicated trip. The nearby town of Flores provides accommodation.
Getting there
Located in the Petén department, about 30 km north of Flores. Accessible by 4x4 vehicle or organized tour from Flores.
Insider tip
Bring insect repellent and water as the site is in a jungle environment. Visit early morning to avoid heat and crowds.
Geography
Facts
- The murals were found in a room beneath the pyramid known as 'Las Pinturas'.
- They are considered the oldest known wall paintings of the Maya civilization.
- The frescoes include complex hieroglyphs that remain partially undeciphered.
- Maize is depicted as a divine substance and the origin of mankind in the myths.
- The pigments were derived from minerals such as hematite and goethite.
- William Saturno discovered the site while seeking shade from the tropical sun.
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Frequently asked questions
Why are the San Bartolo murals so famous?
They are the oldest known Maya murals (c. 100 BC) of extraordinary quality.
What do the murals depict?
They depict scenes from the creation myth of the Maize God.
Can you visit the original murals?
No, they are closed to the public for protection and are located in a remote area.
Where can you see copies?
An excellent replica is in the National Museum of Archaeology in Guatemala City.
Who discovered them?
They were discovered accidentally in 2001 by archaeologist William Saturno.
San Bartolo Murals: where is it located?
San Bartolo Murals is located in Guatemala.
San Bartolo Murals: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
San Bartolo Murals: why is it worth visiting?
The San Bartolo murals are among the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 21st century, located within a Maya site in Guatemala's Petén Department.
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San Benito
A city on Lake Petén Itzá that has merged with Flores.
Flores
Picturesque island town on Lake Petén Itzá, capital of Petén department.
Poptún
A city in southern Petén, surrounded by pine forests.
Melchor de Mencos
Important border town with Belize in the Petén department.
Sayaxché
Town on the Río de la Pasión, a gateway to Maya sites like Ceibal.
La Libertad (Petén)
A large, sprawling municipality in the heart of Petén.
San Andrés
Village on the shore of Lake Petén Itzá.
Nature
Lake Petén Itzá
A large, deep lake in the heart of the Petén Basin, with the city of Flores on an island.
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Pasión River
An important river in Petén, serving as a transport route to many Maya sites like Ceibal and Aguateca.
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Usumacinta River
A major river forming the border between Guatemala and Mexico, known for Maya sites along its banks.
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Maya Mountains
A mountain range extending from Belize into eastern Guatemala, rich in pristine nature.
Conquest of Tayasal
The conquest of the last independent Maya city in 1697, on what is now the island of Flores.
San Carlos Fort
A small fort on the island of Flores, built to protect against pirates.
Flores Island
An island in Lake Petén Itzá which is home to the historic town of Flores.
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Maya Biosphere Reserve
A vast forest area in the Petén Basin, encompassing the largest tropical forest areas in Guatemala.
Las Guacamayas Biological Station
A jungle station on the river with a strong focus on birds, monkeys, and forest protection.