Holmul River (Guatemala) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Holmul River |
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|---|---|
| Country | Guatemala |
| Department | El Petén |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | El Petén 400 m (1,300 ft) 17°00′54″N 89°36′54″W / 17.015112°N 89.614878°W |
| River mouth | 200 m (660 ft) 17°17′52″N 89°12′50″W / 17.297805°N 89.213963°W |
The Holmul River (which is Río Holmul in Spanish) is a river found in the northeastern part of Guatemala. It flows through a special area called the Petén Basin. This region is part of the El Petén departamento (which is like a state or province). The river then heads towards the border with Belize.
This river was very important to the ancient Maya people. Many big and important Maya cities were built along or close to the Holmul River. These cities include famous places like Tikal, Nakum, Holmul, Naranjo, Yaxha, and Witzna. The river helped these ancient cities get water and was likely used for travel and trade.
The Petén Basin and the Maya
The Petén Basin is a large lowland area in northern Guatemala. It was a central place for the ancient Maya civilization. The Holmul River, along with other rivers and lakes, helped support the large populations of Maya people who lived there.
Why Rivers Were Important to the Maya
Rivers like the Holmul were like highways for the ancient Maya. They used them for:
- Transportation: Moving people and goods, like food and building materials, between cities.
- Water Source: Providing fresh water for drinking, farming, and daily life.
- Farming: The land near rivers was often fertile, which was great for growing crops like corn, beans, and squash.
Major Maya Cities Along the Holmul River
Several significant Maya archaeological sites are found near the Holmul River. These sites show how advanced and powerful the Maya civilization was.
- Tikal: One of the largest and most famous Maya cities. It had huge pyramids and temples.
- Nakum: Known for its well-preserved buildings and monuments.
- Holmul: This site shares its name with the river and has important discoveries, including unique Maya art.
- Naranjo: Famous for its many carved stone monuments called stelae, which tell stories of its rulers.
- Yaxha: A large ceremonial center located between two lakes, connected to the river system.
- Witzna: Another important site that shows the widespread influence of the Maya in this region.
These cities were often connected by trade routes that followed the river. This helped them share ideas, goods, and culture.
