Ruinas de Tazumal

The archaeologial site of Ruinas de Tazumal are among the best preserved and most important Maya ruins in El Salvador. They can be found in the town of Chalchuapa, 60 km northwest of San Salvador. In the local Quiché language, 'Tazumal' means 'pyramid where the victims were burned'.

The excavated parts of Tazumal, are part of a much larger zone that lies under the town of Chalchuapa and covers some 10 km² (4 sq miles). It is thought that the first settlements in the region where founded around 5000 BC. The uncovered ruins where constructed in a period spanning some 1000 years. Artifacts found at the site provide evidence of trade between Tazumal and places as far away as Panama and Mexico during ancient times.

Accommodation is available in Chalchuapa. Day trips to the ruins are available in San Salvador.