There is something very special about Copan Ruinas.  It is a beautiful place situated in a mountain valley filled with trees, birds, rivers and flowers of every color.  The town itself is a colorful cobble stoned pueblo with friendly people, a tranquil town square and an inviting market.  We awakened to the sounds of dogs barking and roosters crowing, and waited for breakfast while relaxing in hammocks stretched along the flower-lined porch in the hotel.  Seth and Kesia played below in the river running through the backyard. 
      Then there are the Mayan ruins.....the archaeological remains of this ancient Mayan city are amazing.  This ancient city has a spiritual feeling to it, as though the presence of God is just a little closer here, a little easier to tap into.  Its a place that invites a slow pace and lengthy periods of time just sitting, contemplating the beauty, feeling amazement at the tremendous work that created the walls rising around you, imagining the thousands of people gathered to watch a game on the ball court, or to attend a worship service in the sanctuary. 

     The river valley around Copan was settled about 4000 years ago, but its golden era was from 465 AD to 800 AD.  It is believed that overpopulation led to over farming of the land, wood shortages, erosion and diseases of overcrowding, so the people abandoned the city.  The remains of the city were re-discovered in 1839 by John Lloyd Stephens, and he purchased the site for $50. 

     The Mayans were known for their complex calendar, their many rituals, and a deep appreciation of nature and weather patterns, all of which allowed for the production of surpluses of corn.  This in turn allowed for the flourishing of art, architecture, pottery, and carvings.  Each of the Mayan rulers built his temple and tombs on top of the rulers that came before him, so many layers are visible, especially in the tunnels beneath the city.  A hieroglyphics language system describes the years the rulers were in power, and their names, including interesting ones like 18 Rabbit and Smoke Jaguar. 

     Here's a great article about the work being done to preserve the ancient city of Copan Saving the Mayan Past for the Future and another article on Hieroglyphs and History at Copan.

     We also visited the Copan Museum.