Controversy over closure of Xunantunich Maya Site

The natives of Succotz Village are restless because of the planned closure of the Xunantunich Maya Site until after the Christmas Holidays. The closure is being done to allow for a giant stage so amenities can be erected on the main plaza to accommodate a major international concert. The concert will be held on December 21st. and will coincide with the end of the Mayan Calendar. The plan is to transmit the concert to a global audience. It will also be televised on big screen at four different venues in Belize - and may also be streamed live on YOUTUBE. The two week closure, December 12 - 26, is not going over well with the villagers of Succotz. Many of them make their money peddling their wares to tourists visiting the site and see the move as a direct affront to their way of life; plus they say that the Institute of Archaeology did not consult them. Dr. Jaime Awe, Director of the Institute says he did meet with the villagers on Friday last - but not many people showed up. He says the main purpose of the concert is to raise funds for Belize's Archaeological Parks - and that villagers will benefit. Erection of a new craft center is also planned for the villagers. The talk is that organizers are hoping to book major Canadian performers. Awe also noted that Tikal in Guatemala and Chichen Itza in Mexico are having their own December 21st concerts and those venues too will be closed for a few days to prepare for the epoch event.

PlusTV