El Baúl

El Baul is a Pre-Columbian archaeological site in Escuintla, Guatemala, part of the Cotzumalhuapa Archaeological Zone alongside Bilbao and El Castillo. Flourishing during the Late Classic period (600-900 AD), it contains over 200 structures and 187 sculptured monuments, including Stela 1 dated to 36 CE. The site features an acropolis 83 feet high with four courts, a ball court, and 22 platforms. Its inhabitants developed an original undeciphered writing system and an artistic style linked to cacao production and ritual practices.