Mixco Viejo
Mixco Viejo (mixco-viejo-guatemala)
Classic·Maya/Andean·🇬🇹 Guatemala, Chimaltenango Department, Guatemala
About
About Mixco Viejo
Mixco Viejo — fortified Kaqchikel twin capital on 12 hilltop spurs with 120 structures, defensive walls and twin ballcourts. Henri Lehmann 1954–1967 excavations reveal 1.2 km long hill-complex with schist masonry and ravine spurs. Destroyed 1525 by Alvarado, twin groups A and B.
Why it mattersKey reference for regional chronology and architectural phasing.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Chronology and phasing
- 02Function vs symbolic meaning
Theories
- 01Ceremonial centre model
- 02Territorial marker
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c.600–900 CE (Classic)
- Period
- Classic
- Culture
- Maya/Andean
- Builders
- Regional builders
- Purpose
- Ceremonial and administrative center
- Abandoned
- c.900 CE
- Rediscovered
- 20th century; INAH/Proyecto excavations
- Excavation
- Partially excavated
c.600 CE
Initial construction
c.900 CE
Major refurbishment and abandonment
1970s
Modern excavation and consolidation
On the ground
Structures & features
14.8750° N · 90.6600° W · 900 m · 2 mapped features
Mixco Viejo Guatemala — Principal
structurePrimary structure at mixco-viejo-guatemala
14.8760° N · 90.6590° WMixco Viejo Guatemala — Ancillary
complexSecondary plaza at mixco-viejo-guatemala
14.8739° N · 90.6608° W
Gallery