The Chajoma capital whose real name, Saqik'ajol Nimakaqapek,
a tongue twister to western speakers is located just 40 miles
outside of Guatemala City. It loosely translates to "White-son
Big Rock of the clay bed". Built on top of a high ridge
surrounded by steep gradient cliffs it forms a strong defensive
city for 6 different Kaqchikel groups or a chitinamita. Located
between the Maya city of Kaminaljuyú (now Guatemala
City) and the bountiful obsidian mines of San Martin Jilotepeque,
Mixco Viejo, was a prominent city of the Post Classic Mayan
history. According to the documents written during the Spanish
conquest, the king of the Chajomal was known for his non-diplomatic
brutality. When another king of the Kackchikel of Iximche
sent a bride to the King of the Kaqchikel of Chajomal he promptly
ate her, starting a war between the city states.
*The famous story of Mixco Viejo where Pedro de Alvarado
finds a tunnel entrance and a secret tunnel exit to the site
where his army was able to capture the Indians and protect
his soldiers with shields in actuality occurred at a site
called Chinaulta Viejo, a Pocoman site, which is SE of the
site of Mixco Viejo. Mixco Viejo should be more accurately
called Jilotepeque Viejo.
Our Rapids 'N Ruins trips incorporates the beauty of nature
and the wonders of the Maya World. We have dedicated archaeologist
guides to lead us through the myriad of theories and finds
within the Maya realm. Our adventure guides trained by us,
in our US style dedicated to having a safe fun trip, allows
you to rest easily assured your clients are well taken care
of while enjoying the adventure of whitewater rafting.
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