Situated along the Lower Motagua River, the Mayan site known as Quirigua was probably built during the Classic period. Brought to the public’s attention in 1840, Quirigua was most likely a very important site but does not boast as much ceremonial architecture as other well-known Mayan sites.

What Quirigua does have, however, is a wealth of sculpture. These pieces, known as stelae, were carved from a single block of stone and often stood more than 9 meters (30 feet) high. Weighing as much as 65 tons, the stelae bear the likenesses of Mayan deities.

Also at Quirigua are a number of animal sculptures, which archaeologists have labeled “zoomorphs.” A few are considered among the masterpieces of Mesoamerican art.