I am very disappointed in that one day about three weeks ago I took my family to the supposed museum and Department of Archelogy lcated in Belmopan only to discover they no longer exist. I wanted to see some of the history and artifacts of Belize but found this impossible. With all the discoveries made in Belize the past century, where are all of these artifacts being displayed or stored? I am very curiouss about this as I have heard so much about such items simply 'disappearing'. So, if anybody can tell me more on this topic, I would deeply appreciate it. Where did the government store these items?

There is a museum in Belize City - it is housed in the old prison. I believe the majority of the unique artifacts are displayed there.

We have visited the Museum of Belize in the old prison. It is really interesting. They have a lot of great Maya artifacts, historical photographs and information about Belize and the prison itself. A huge philatetic display and a wonderful butterfly and insect room. Worth a visit for sure.

I agree that the Museum of Belize is excellent -- it has many Maya artifacts, both on display and in stored collections. There are also Maya artifacts in visitor centers at Lamanai, Xunantunich, Caracol, Cahal Pech, Nim Li Punit and elsewhere. Also in some of the caves, such as ATM.

The archeology department vault in Belmopan has been closed to the public for many years -- mid to late 1990s? -- though at times in the past you could arrange for a private visit.

--Lan Sluder