Cihuatán
A city of nearly 300 hectares destroyed and abandoned around the year 1200.
Km. 36.5 of the Troncal del Norte highway, 3 km north of Aguilares, San Salvador
About Cihuatán
Cihuatán preserves part of one of the largest pre-Hispanic cities in El Salvador. The tour takes you through its walled ceremonial center, where the main pyramid, plazas, platforms, and ball courts are located. The site also features an acropolis that housed the palace and the residences of the elite, as well as an archaeological trail that allows visitors to explore part of the area where the rest of the population lived.
Details
Hours
Mon closed Tue-Sun 9:00 AM-4:00 PM
Admission
$1 – $5 USD
Best time to visit
In the morning
Highlight
300 hectares
Brief History
The name Cihuatán comes from Nahuatl and is interpreted as "place of women," although it is unknown what the inhabitants called the city. The settlement was built around 900 or 950 A.D., after the decline of ancient regional centers like San Andrés. Within a few centuries, it grew to become one of the largest cities in Salvadoran territory. Between 1150 and 1200, it suffered an attack, several of its structures were set on fire, and the city was left permanently abandoned.
Photo Gallery
Location & Map
Km. 36.5 of the Troncal del Norte highway, 3 km north of Aguilares, San Salvador
Visit Tips
Entrance: $1 for Salvadorans, $3 for Central Americans and resident foreigners, $5 for non-residents. Residents of the municipality, students with a valid ID, people with disabilities, seniors, and children under 12 years old enter for free.
Open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Closed on Mondays.
It is the largest of the five parks: wear comfortable shoes, a cap, and bring water, as the tour is outdoors. Guided tours last 35 to 45 minutes, in groups of up to 15 people.
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