Guatemala to open Mayan tourist park

Date: 17/01/2008 15:00

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Guatemalan president Alvaro Colom has announced plans to develop a new tourist park centred around ancient Mayan ruins.

The site is home to the largest pyramids in the world, and is thought to have been abandoned around 900 AD.

President Colom says the ancient city is around three times the size of the Tikal ruins, which are already a major tourist destination, Reuters reports

"Among the structures is the world's most massive pyramid and I think it even beats the Egyptians by around a metre," he added.

Currently, the site is only accessible by helicopter or a two day hike through the jungle.

Scientists are unsure as to why the Mayans abandoned their cities, with disease, climate change and over-production all being claimed as contributors.

President Colom took office on Monday and as well as this announcement, he has stated that his first 100 days will be devoted to public safety, rural aid and building more schools and health facilities.


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