Colección Dr Juan Antonio Valdés

El Petén


The collection on display here, on the north side of the airstrip, holds a remarkable wealth of Maya pottery from Uaxactún, Yaxhá and as far away as Oaxaca, Mexico. There are vases, cups, plates, bowls, incense burners and tall vessels for drinking chocolate. Caretaker Neria can tell you the history, origin, meaning and use of each one.

A case contains some of the most precious finds: stone earrings, arrowheads and three plates showing the dance of the corn god.

Although there's no admission fee, donations are appreciated.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby El Petén attractions

1. Palacio A-XVIII

0.33 MILES

The imposing Palacio A-XVIII affords the most panoramic view of the site from its summit. It's located on a path leading back to the village from behind…

2. Templo E-X

0.36 MILES

This is the tallest and possibly the oldest of a set of temples at Grupo E. Archaeologists date the structure to around 400 BC. Standing north of the…

3. Templo E-VII-Sub

0.38 MILES

The most significant temple in Grupo E, Templo E-VII-Sub is among the earliest intact temples excavated at the site, with foundations going back perhaps…

4. Templo E-I

0.39 MILES

One of several temples located in Grupo E, a 10- to 15-minute walk from the airstrip, between the Catholic and Evangelical churches on the right side…

5. Templo E-II

0.4 MILES

This is the middle of three temples that together form an astronomical observatory at Grupo E. Viewed from Templo E-VII-Sub, the sun sets behind Templo E…

6. Palacio V

0.41 MILES

About a 20-minute walk to the northwest of the airstrip are Grupo B and Grupo A, the latter featuring the more formidable structures around the city's…

7. Templo E-III

0.41 MILES

One of several temples located in Grupo E, a 10- to 15-minute walk from the airstrip, between the Catholic and Evangelical churches on the right side…

8. Templo E-V

0.43 MILES

Templo E-V is part of a complex of unexcavated temples at Grupo E.