This large Maya site hit the papers when it was 'discovered' in 2000, even though it had already been 'discovered' back in 1907. Excavations are still under way, but estimates say that Cancuén may rival Tikal for size.
It's thought that Cancuén was a trading center rather than a religious center, and the usual temples and pyramids are absent. In their place is a grand palace boasting more than 150 rooms set around 11 courtyards.
Carvings here are impressive, particularly the grand palace, but also along the ball courts and the two altars that have been excavated to date.
Cancuén's importance seems to stem from its geographical/tactical position. Hieroglyphics attest to alliances with Calakmul (Mexico) and Tikal, and its relative proximity to the southern Highlands would have given it access to pyrite and obsidian, prized minerals of the Maya.
Artisans certainly worked here – their bodies have been discovered dressed, unusually, in royal finery. Several workshops have also been uncovered, one containing a 17kg piece of jade.
Casual visitors will need about an hour to see the main, partially excavated, sections of the site and another hour or two to see the rest.
