Nohmul

Nohmul is a Maya archaeological site located in northern Belize, in the Orange Walk District. It was a significant Maya center, occupied from the Preclassic period (c. 350 BCE) through the Postclassic period (c. 900 CE) and beyond. Nohmul is particularly known for its large size and substantial monumental architecture.

The site's name, Nohmul, translates to "big mound" or "great mound" in the Yucatec Maya language. This is a fitting description, as the site originally featured a prominent central pyramid, which stood approximately 17 meters (56 feet) tall. This pyramid served as a focal point for the surrounding complex of residential structures, plazas, and other buildings.

Nohmul's location likely contributed to its importance. Situated near the New River, it provided access to important trade routes and agricultural resources. The site was also part of a larger network of Maya settlements in the region, facilitating interactions and exchange with other centers.

Unfortunately, Nohmul suffered significant damage in 2013 when construction crews used heavy machinery to extract limestone gravel from the site's central pyramid for road fill. This destruction resulted in the near-total obliteration of a substantial portion of the ancient structure and caused international outrage and condemnation. The incident highlighted the vulnerability of archaeological sites to development pressures and the importance of protecting cultural heritage. While some remnants of the site remain, the damage is irreversible, and a significant piece of Maya history has been lost.