SITE
While little is known of the origins of the mysterious city of Holmul, the archaeological site is home to one of the richest and most exquisite collections of Mayan ceramic pottery ever discovered. Located in north eastern Petén, on the crossroads between the Tikal state and its eastern neighbours, the city is believed to have been a prominent economic and political power during the Mayan Classic Period. In recent years, preservation of the complex network of palaces, temples, ritual altars and mausoleums at Holmul has been threatened by extensive looting.

ARCHITECTURE
The imposing Ruin X Pyramid stands at the centre of Holmul, flanked by three massive plazas and an acropolis containing 5 stelae and 4 altars. An elaborate Pre-Classic palatial complex, identified as Group III, lies to the south of the acropolis. Connecting the main plaza with a second complex to the west is a broad causeway. Known as Group II, these immense ruins include an elite residential area adjacent to a large open-ended ball-court, and are adorned with giant masks on the east and west facades.

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