Caracol meaning

Caracol, meaning "snail" in Spanish, is a term used to describe a spiral-shaped ancient Mayan city.


Caracol definitions

Word backwards locarac
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division Ca-ra-col
Plural The plural of the word "caracol" is "caracoles."
Total letters 7
Vogais (2) a,o
Consonants (3) c,r,l

Caracol is a remarkable archaeological site located in western Belize, near the Guatemalan border. It was once a major Mayan city that thrived during the Classic Period, reaching its peak around 650 AD. The name "Caracol" means "snail" in Spanish, and it was given this name due to the winding access road leading to the site.

One of the most fascinating features of Caracol is its massive central core area, which includes an impressive acropolis and numerous plazas. The site covers an area of over 30 square miles, making it one of the largest archaeological sites in Belize. The tallest structure at Caracol is the Caana (Sky Palace) pyramid, standing at around 138 feet tall.

History of Caracol

Excavations at Caracol have revealed valuable insights into Mayan civilization, including the city's political history, societal organization, and agricultural practices. The city was involved in various conflicts with neighboring city-states, including Tikal, and it was able to assert its dominance in the region for many years.

Rediscovery and Excavation

Although local inhabitants were aware of Caracol for centuries, the site was officially "rediscovered" by loggers in the 1930s. It wasn't until the 1950s that formal archaeological excavations began at the site, leading to groundbreaking discoveries and a better understanding of this ancient Mayan city.

Visiting Caracol Today

Today, Caracol is a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to explore the ruins of this once-great Mayan city. Visitors can climb the towering pyramids, walk through the ancient plazas, and learn about the fascinating history of the site through guided tours and interpretive signage.

In conclusion, Caracol stands as a testament to the ingenuity and advanced civilization of the ancient Maya. Its impressive structures, rich history, and importance in the study of Mesoamerican archaeology make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the wonders of the ancient world.


Caracol Examples

  1. The caracol slowly made its way across the forest floor.
  2. I found a beautiful caracol shell on the beach.
  3. The caracol's spiral shape fascinated the children.
  4. The caracol's shell served as protection from predators.
  5. We observed a caracol climbing up a plant stem.
  6. The caracol left a trail of slime behind as it moved.
  7. The caracol retreated into its shell when threatened.
  8. A caracol can be a symbol of slow and steady progress.
  9. The caracol's resilience in harsh conditions is inspiring.
  10. Caracol is the Spanish word for snail.


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  • Updated 03/04/2024 - 21:37:22