Río Bravo Conservation & Management Area - La Milpa Archaeological Site

The La Milpa archaeological site is the third-largest Mayan site in Belize and dates to the Late Pre-Classic period. Mayan for "cornfield", La Milpa was once an important ceremonial center and experts believe the present surrounding forest was once completely cleared for agricultural use. The large site, which contains about 24 courtyards and 85 major structures, hosted a large population that is believed to have put a strain on the surrounding environment. The city grew until its collapse in the 9th C, however the remains of a Yucatec long house indicate that a different Mayan culture occupied the site shortly after.

The ruins of La Milpa rise out of the surrounding forest. La Milpa's main plaza is one of the largest in