Tikal, Guatemala
I stand beside the Temple of the Giant Jaguar. Here, at the ruins of Tikal, citadel of the ancient Maya, I feel ever connected to the past. These buildings stand in silent testimony that a once powerful civilization existed here.
Lying just north of Flores in the jungle of El Petén, Tikal is one of the world's most beautiful archaeological sites, and one that inspires much thought. As I walk in the footsteps of so many who have gone before me, I wonder what their lives were like, what their hopes, wishes and dreams were.
Not long ago, these temples lay forgotten, entombed in a jungle so dense that howler and spider monkeys danced on their steps.
If you can manage the tricky climb to the top of Temple 4, a scenic vista awaits. Does it look familiar? This view was used to represent the rebel base in the classic Star Wars film!
What would the ancient Maya have thought of their civilization, lost to the ravages of time, slowly crumbling with the elements?
It happens. Even a long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away...
Hi Todd! That's whay I said after visiting Tikal - I had to watch the Star Wars film again!
Posted by: Melody | January 30, 2010 at 08:09 AM
Guatemala is SO beautiful! I never knew that about the star wars film...hmmm gonna have to watch that again!
Posted by: Todd | January 28, 2010 at 06:11 PM