The Xibun Archaeological Project is focused on understanding the history and prehistory of human settlement in the Sibun River Valley of Central Belize. An archaeologically littleknown and visually spectacular area, the Sibun river originates in a deep granite gorge of the Maya mountains and cuts through limestone to create a fertile floodplain on which even today orchards of chocolate trees can be found. Caves rich in artifacts and known to be ritually important to the ancient Maya line the south side of the valley. Students participate in the discovery, recording and recreation of this cultural landscape through archaeological survey and excavation both in the river valley and adjacent cave systems. Students will be housed in a tent camp in proximity to the Western Highway for the first six weeks and near the Hummingbird Highway for the final six weeks of the semester.
Students learn the skills of survey, mapping, and excavation.
Other activities include field trips to selected Maya sites in Belize, Mexico, Guatemala, or Honduras. Costs include tuition, housing, board, field trips, round-trip airfare, and medical emergency evacuation insurance. Applicants will be notified of any changes in the calendar. Detailed course descriptions are available on request from the Division of International Programs.