Becán

The Becán Archaeological Zone in Campeche is a fascinating Maya complex just off the Tren Maya at the Station Xpujil. The complex gives visitors a deep insight into the culture and even the urban outlook of the ancient civilization. The city, which flourished between 500 BCE and 1200 CE, is widely known for the architecture and the network of fortifications built to keep hold on the strategic location.

Becán is especially known for these defensive walls. They surround much of the city and, in this form, they are a rare and distinctive feature of Maya architecture. Highly complex, the walls suggest that Becán was important as a commercial center and for its proximity to other key Maya cities. Over many years, the city served as a trading point, and the very style of it reflects the cultural richness of the region.

One of the main attractions is the central acropolis, and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent. Dedicated to multiple gods, the detail in the sculptures and relief is exquisite. Becán also boasts a network of elevated causeways connecting sectors of the city and allowing visitors to explore these areas, plazas, palaces, and even residential neighborhoods.

The natural environment of thick tropical jungle makes a visit even more attractive as visitors get an immersive experience in Maya culture and nature. The site is all but a suburb of the little town of Xpujil and includes its own little modern settlement. Between the two places there are today a variety of places to stay. Most visitors will want to take in other sites such as those at Chicanná, Hormiguero, and Xpuhil. 

Travel time on the train Maya is probably easiest (fastest) from Chetumal. The trip is just about two hours. From Escarcega, where you might need to change trains arriving from either Campeche or Palenque, the trip takes about 15 minutes longer. But on the Tren Maya, you can also expect it to be a very relaxing and enjoyable trip.