Hi again,
here are a couple of shots from my tramping around the ruins at
Xuantantunich. First, let's get a long range perspective of the principal structure,
El Castillo.
 
While it's not the biggest or most impressive ruin in Mundo Maya,
El Castillo is an interesting and well preserved example of architecture from the classic era.
 
This is a shot of the stairs leading up the east side of the structure. You can see the impressive stucco frieze near the top.
               
 
We might as well have a looksee at that frieze, while we're here. It's a fine specimen and not too badly weathered considering the centuries that have gone by since its construction.
![[Linked Image]](http://www.onebarrelrum.com/images/Belize/dec_2007/frieze_s.jpg)
 
Of course, the view from the top is awe-inspiring. I sat up there for a long time, taking in the view. It was a warm December day with a nice breeze-a beautiful experience.
               
I took the first photo in this sequence from that smaller pyramid just across the courtyard. Knowing that might help to define the distances and relative heights of the stuctures a little.
 
I guess that does it for this installment of
The Danimal Does Belize. I hope you liked the photos, more "soon".
    Dan