Belizean archaeological authorities have issued a forceful response following the recent defacement of the ancient Maya city of Xunantunich by vandals. The Institute of Archaeology has reinforced that such acts of graffiti constitute not only profound disrespect but also carry severe legal consequences, including fines reaching $75,000 or potential imprisonment for up to five years.
Dr. Melissa Badillo, Director of the Institute of Archaeology, expressed profound disappointment at the recurring incidents targeting the nation’s cultural treasures. She emphasized that these ancient structures represent irreplaceable portals to Belize’s historical legacy, with graffiti inflicting permanent damage to delicate carvings, architectural features, and artifacts.
The Institute maintains ongoing educational outreach programs targeting schools, tour operators, local communities, and researchers to foster preservation awareness. However, the recent vandalism has prompted officials to issue a stark reminder about the illegal nature of such activities. Dr. Badillo noted that while the tourism industry presents certain challenges regarding site protection, all visitors—whether domestic or international—must exercise responsibility when accessing these sacred spaces.
Authorities are seeking to identify the individuals responsible for the latest incident while calling for collaborative efforts from tour guides and visitors alike to prevent further damage to Belize’s cultural heritage sites.