We spent a glorious day exploring the streets of Acanceh and talking to the people there. We visited during the festival days for the patron saint of the town, the Virgen of Guadalupe. The students broke off in groups to explore distinct topics such as religion, traditions, markets, history of the pueblo, etc.
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Talking with a man outside the church gates |
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Asking a vendor about his wares |
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Three symbols found in the center of town: a restored Mayan pyramid open for tourism, the sacred tree of the Mayan worldview, and a catholic church dedicated to the Virgen Mary |
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Asking about how the "ruedo" is made for the corrida de toros (bullfight) |
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In the archaeological site, talking with an expert about the buildings |
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Learning about the "mascarones" depicting Mayan governors and kings with body modifications to help them appear more godlike |
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At the very top, Maria explains what the downtown area would have looked like thousands of years ago |
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Our view |
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For the next leg of the journey we had a little help from the trici-taxis! |
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Details of an elaborate mural found in the temple |
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As the noon-day sun heats up, we take one last look and turn back toward the city |