Located about 40 miles northwest of Guatemala City, the Mixco Viejo Ruins date back to the 13th Century and are well worth seeing.  Mixco Viejo, the capital of the Pokoman Mayan tribe, was by the early 1500´s one of the most important Mayan cities, known as both a military and religious center. Mixco Viejo was home to eight or nine thousand people when it was conquered by Don Pedro de Alvarado, with the help of Indians from Mexico, in the early 16th Century.

The ruins are made up of 12 groups of pyramids and are surrounded by steep ravines.  Some of the most important structures include the ball court near the main plaza, and the twin pyramids.

How to get there:  The best way to get to Mixco Viejo Ruins is to rent a four-wheel-drive vehicle.  It's about a two-hour drive from Guatemala City.  Or, if you prefer public transportation, you can catch the early morning bus for Pachalum from the bus terminal in Zone 4.  Ask the driver if it goes by the ruins and ask what time the return bus will be.  

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