4 Mesoamerican Digs for 2013

With the hype of 2012 and bad interpretations of Mayan dating techniques finally behind us, it's time to get down to the real work that is archaeology in Mesoamerica, allowing us to better understand the real history of the Mayans, Incas, and Aztecs in that part of the world.

From exciting sites that offer a glimpse of the relatively simple lives lead by America's ancient peoples, to the honor of finding yourself in the midst of of large and magnificent ruins, volunteer opportunities abound where South and Central American archaeological digs are concerned. Here is a look at four of the prime volunteer and student-friendly Mesoamerican digs that will be taking place in 2013:

1. Belize Valley Archaeological Projects

Over two sessions that will take place in June and August of 2013, the Belize Valley Archaeological Reconnaissance Project will be conducting work at the site known as Baking Pot, an area rich in camping remains, and playing host to two groups of monumental architecture.

This summer's research will focus narrowly on one area in particular: the monumental center at a palace complex known to those working at the site as Group B. Those on site will be working towards clearing sections of the structures and courtyards in an effort to uncover new artifacts and develop a more thorough understanding of the chronology and heritage of the site.

And those who strive for more fun than ancient civilizations offer, can use car rental services of companies like Cheapcarrental.net and dig for a little more action at Mexico's world renown resorts such as Cancun, which is less than 300 miles away from Belize!

2. Blue Creek Project

If the past few years of silliness surrounding the Mayan people and their dating methods have lead you to a natural curiosity about the facts behind their works and lives, the Maya Research Program and its Blue Creek Project is the place for you.

For the 21st year in a row, this American group will sponsor extensive fieldwork at the Mayan site called Blue Creek, located in northwestern Belize, offering everyone involved the opportunity to discover the fascinating reality of Mayan existence.

The project will be open to students and non-students alike, and experience - or lack thereof - is not a concern in the application process. With academic credit and even scholarships available, this project is well-worth checking out for anyone with a working interest in archaeology.

3. Oaxaca, Mexico

For the third straight year, Indiana University will be playing host to anthropology faculty members, students, and outside volunteers for their field program based in Oaxaca, Mexico. With a focus on archaeology that often finds itself embracing modern anthropology, this course will introduce students to the wide range of diversity in this region, ranging from the ancient Maya to the current inhabitants.

While some of the course's planned activity will involve active time at dig sites, you'll also have the opportunity to attend local festivals and learn about the modern issues, both economic and ecological, facing Oaxaca's people.

4. Project Roatan, Honduras

The University of South Florida is set to host a fantastic learning opportunity for burgeoning archaeologists with a passion for Mesoamerica with its Mesoamerican Archaeology Field School. Taking students on a five-week journey through the history of the pirates and puritans who dominated the Caribbean in the 16th and 17th centuries, the course will focus its attention on the excavation of the English and Pech settlements located at New Port Royal and Camp Bay Village.

Students attending this once-in-a-lifetime course will learn to use archaeological methods to answer the questions that face us in exploring the history of those who came before us, offering a strong base for any historian and archaeologist.

Guest Post Contributor: Jessie Troy

Actun Tunichil Muknal-Belize's ATM Cave

When I arrived at Actun Tunichil Muknal cave (Belize ATM), I knew there were certain steps I had to take before planting my feet firmly on the ground.

I made my first stop at the Belize Tourism Board to find out which agent would be conducting tours of the ATM Cave in Belize. Entrance to the cave is strictly limited to certain license holders in an attempt to preserve the foundation and its holdings.

History of the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave

Actun Tunichil Muknal cave, otherwise known as the Cave of the Stone Sepulcher, was first entered by the Mayans in AD 300-600. It was not until the late AD 700-900 that the Mayans went deeper into the cave to perform their ceremonies. The cave was officially opened to the public in 1998. The cave houses various types of artifacts from ceramics and stoneware to the remains of skeletons. The Mayans considered Belize ATM Cave a highly sacred location, enclosing the famous "Crystal Maiden," who was thought to be a sacrifice victim. After decades of weathering and natural processes, the surface of the skeleton appears to be covered with a geological sanded finish, which gives the maiden a somewhat magical fairy-dust appearance.

How to Get To Actun Tunichil Muknal cave

I had to make sure I was properly attired for the hike, as well as prepared with a change of clothing. No flip-flops, ladies and gentlemen, this is the jungle! Hiking boots, heavy socks, cargo pants are great, tank tops or short sleeve shirts work well, and a bathing suit underneath. Remember, you're going to get wet; it's inevitable. The Actun Tunichil Muknal cave is a short 45-minute trek through the jungle in the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve. You will cross three streams, learning about the surrounding vegetation and history along the way. When you arrive at the entrance of the cave, you will receive the necessary tools from your tour guide to make it through the cave safely. Just remember, you will be in the cave for nearly 3 hours, so make sure you are comfortable, even if that requires you to change into dry clothing.

Tip: Actun Tunichil Muknal cave takes a lot of physical energy. Make sure you drink a lot of water the morning of your trip and stretch out for at least 15 minutes. Bring a change a clothing as well as a backup pair of shoes.

What You Will See At Actun Tunichil Muknal cave

The cave is a maze of chambers, along with a cathedral-like area for ceremonial sacrifices. In fact, I found some slate steels, which by my research, were used by the leaders to cut away flesh, allowing their blood to be an offering to the gods.Aside from the remains of different sacrifice victims, there is also an assortment of ceramics exhibiting "kill holes", which indicate they were used for ritualistic purposes.

The ceilings are dripping with stalactites, which are a type of speleothem seen only in limestone caves. I had to resist the temptation to touch them, as it takes so much time for them to develop. It's a show of respect to the local culture; however some travelers still can't resist the urge.

All of the artifacts that were used on a day-to-day basis at Actun Tunichil Muknal were left as they were, making it an amazing experience, seeing ancient life come alive before your very eyes. The Belize ATM Cave exceeded  my expectations. As for the sacred nature of the site, I found the experience both gratifying and educational. I would urge anyone that is traveling to Belize to explore this wonder of  Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave.