This is Temple I in Tikal National Park. It is called the Temple of the Great Jaguar because carved on the lintel of the main door way is a King sitting on a Jaguar Throne. It was the burial temple of the 26th. Mayan King Jasaw Chan K'awiil. Our guide said he was also know as King Ah Cacao (King of Chocolate). He is believed to have been 5' 9"; tall by Mayan standards and lived to be 82 years old. A great king that warranted a temple for a burial place. This temple is found on the East side of the Great Plaza.

On the West side of the Great Plaza is Temple II. Built by King Jasaw Chan K'awiil to honor his wife Lady K'alajuan Uni Mo (her name translates to Twelve Macaw Tails). Female remains were found in a burial chamber there. The wooden lintel over the entry bears the portrait of a royal lady, wife of the king and mother of the next King Yik'in Chan K'awiil. While there our guide told us that no one was allowed to climb the steps because there had been a death years back.

Which brings me to another part of my thoughts. On December 21 they allowed some 7000 tourist in for an "end of the world" party. Several thousand apparently did climb the steps and did irreparable damage. For many years this park has been an UNESCO Heritage Park, to preserve and educate others of this legacy. I have learned not to send negative energy out because it only perpetuates the situation. So sending only good loving energy to the people who daily work to repair, preserve and honor this place. The Ancient Energy felt here makes you realize these were brilliant advanced people in so many ways, and their modern family are working to show that. So sad that some see it only as a money making proposition.