Sak Tunich Art Gallery
Introduction
Sak Tunich Art Gallery is a remarkable Maya cultural site located in San Antonio village in the Cayo District of Belize. This distinctive and enriching destination invites visitors to connect with living Maya traditions and experience the vibrant heritage of the Yucatec Maya people. Nestled amid lush natural surroundings, the site is both an art gallery and a modern temple, offering a rare glimpse into the continuity of Maya culture through the devoted efforts of a contemporary Maya family.
About the Museum
Sak Tunich Art Gallery began as a Maya family-led project in 1990. The name “Sak Tunich” comes from the Yucatec Maya language: “Sak” meaning white, and “Tunich” meaning rock. It stands today as the only Maya site that has been constructed by living descendants of the Yucatec Maya, making it a unique and deeply meaningful space.
The site features a modern Maya temple created by Mr. Jose Magaña, who along with his family, has dedicated decades of hard work and sustainable funding to build and maintain the site. Their mission is clear: to educate both local and international visitors about Yucatec Maya culture and to demonstrate that the Maya people continue to thrive and contribute in today’s world.
Visitors to Sak Tunich can explore Plaza A and Plaza B, experience a ceremonial room, view a collection of authentic artifacts, and descend through a mysterious underground entrance. The site also includes a fascinating conservation effort called the “Save the Royal Project,” a breeding program for the gibnut, commonly known as the “Royal Rat.” The moniker “Royal Rat” originated when Queen Elizabeth II was served this local delicacy during her visit in 1985.
One of the most striking features of the site is a one-hundred-foot tower. From its summit, visitors are treated to panoramic views that stretch across mountains, jungle, and nearby villages. It is a breathtaking vantage point ideal for watching sunsets or even stargazing on clear nights.
Moreover, Mr. Jose Magaña continues to serve his community as one of the last remaining h’men—a Maya priest and herbal healer. He and his son regularly perform traditional ceremonies such as weddings, cacao rituals, and spiritual cleansing across Belize.
Interesting Facts
- The name “Sak Tunich” literally translates to “white rock” in the Yucatec Maya language.
- It is the only Maya site constructed by living descendants of the Yucatec Maya.
- The project began in 1990 and has been sustained entirely through the hard work and self-funding of Mr. Jose Magaña and his family.
- The site features Plazas A and B, a ceremonial room, a curated collection of artifacts, and an underground entrance.
- The “Save the Royal Project” is a breeding program for the gibnut, a local delicacy nicknamed the “Royal Rat” after Queen Elizabeth II was served it during her 1985 visit.
- A one-hundred-foot tower provides sweeping views of mountains, jungle, and village life—ideal for sunset viewing and stargazing.
- Mr. Jose Magaña is a practicing Maya shaman—a h’men—and along with his son, offers traditional ceremonies including weddings, cacao rituals, and cleansing ceremonies throughout Belize.
Photo Gallery
Physical Location
Contact Details
Phone: +50 16 50 0815
Website: belizing.com/SAKTUNICH/
Facebook: facebook.com/saktunich/
Conclusion
Sak Tunich Art Gallery offers visitors far more than a mere look at the past: it is a vibrant, living testament to contemporary Maya culture. From its thoughtful construction by a devoted Maya family, to the immersive cultural experiences and panoramic views it provides, Sak Tunich is a place that educates, inspires, and uplifts. Visitors have the opportunity not only to witness beautiful architecture and artifacts, but also to engage with a passionate cultural ambassador in Mr. Jose Magaña, enhancing their understanding of Maya heritage and its modern continuities. A visit to Sak Tunich is an enriching experience—a meaningful journey into tradition, resilience, and artistry that has been cultivated lovingly by its creators.
