Qʼumarkaj

Q’umarkaj is a pre-Columbian Maya archaeological site in the department of El Quiché in Guatemala, historically known as the capital of the K’iche’ Maya polity (often called Utatlán). It contains plazas and platform structures associated with the K’iche’ elite.

Key features at the site include large ceremonial plazas framed by pyramidal platforms and public architecture that reflect its role as a political and religious centre prior to the Spanish conquest. The site is an important example of Postclassic highland Maya urbanism.

Q’umarkaj was the primary city of the K’iche’ until Spanish forces led by Pedro de Alvarado captured and partially destroyed it in 1524. The ruins lie in a highland region near present-day Santa Cruz del Quiché and are accessible by road from that town.

Geographically the site sits in the highlands of El Quiché Department in western Guatemala, set among hilly terrain typical of the Guatemalan highlands and within driving distance of Quiché’s main towns.

• Historical event: The site was the capital of the K'iche' Maya polity and was conquered by Spanish forces under Pedro de Alvarado in 1524.