The Maya built their cities in five countries: Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras and El Salvador. Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador were the hardest hit by Hurricane Mitch, but flooding was reported in all five countries. Here is a report on the major archaeological sites:Mexico: No damage reported from Chichen Itza, Palenque and Tulum. The three sites are now open.
Guatemala: No damage reported from Tikal, the largest Mayan site; the site and roads leading to it are open. No damage reported from Quirigua, which is fairly close to Copan. But Quirigua, located among large banana plantations, is flooded. Waters must recede before the site is reopened.
Belize: No damage reported from the sites of Altun Ha, Lamanai and Kohunlich; all three remain open.
Honduras: See accompanying story.
El Salvador: No damage reported from Tazumal and only minor damage reported from San Andres. Some damage was reported from Joya de Ceren, also on UNESCO's World Heritage list. The excavation pits were filled with mud, and the covers on some of the buildings collapsed. The adobe buildings are in peril because of excessive humidity. All three sites are open.