Tazumal: El Salvador's Archaeological Jewel
Located in the city of Chalchuapa, Santa Ana department, about an hour from San Salvador, Tazumal is one of El Salvador's most important archaeological sites, home to the country's tallest pyramid.
Ancient History
The occupation of Tazumal dates back to 1200 BC. Its largest structure stands 24 meters tall with twelve platforms. Tombs containing over 116 vessels, jade jewelry, iron pyrite mirrors, and lizard-shaped ceramics have been discovered here.
Major Discoveries
Among the treasures found on site: the Stone of Victories, an Olmec-influenced monolith dated around 700 BC, and the famous Virgin of Tazumal discovered in 1892.
Practical Information
📍 Location: Chalchuapa, 75 km from San Salvador
🕐 Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9am-4pm (closed Mondays)
⏱️ Visit Duration: 45-60 minutes
Other Mayan Sites to Visit
🏛️ Joya de Cerén (UNESCO)
El Salvador's only UNESCO site, nicknamed "the Pompeii of the Americas". This 1,400-year-old farming village was preserved by 14 layers of volcanic ash. It's the only Mayan site where you can see ordinary people's daily life.
🏛️ San Andrés
A pyramid complex that served as a political and ceremonial center dominating the Zapotitán Valley. An impressive site for understanding Mayan social organization.
🏛️ Casa Blanca
Part of the Chalchuapa archaeological zone along with Tazumal and El Trapiche. Ideal to complete your visit to the region.
Practical Tips
- Recommended Circuit: All three sites (Tazumal, Joya de Cerén, San Andrés) can be visited in one day
- Access: Tazumal is about 75 km from San Salvador and 14 km from Santa Ana
- Guides: Available on-site for in-depth explanations
- Museum: Small museum at each site with local artifacts
These ruins, while more modest than those in Guatemala or Mexico, offer a fascinating glimpse into Salvadoran pre-Columbian history and are absolutely worth the visit.