Welcome to the Belize Archaeology Symposium!

The Institute of Archaeology proudly celebrates the 20th anniversary of the Belize Archaeology Symposium (BAS), now hosted biannually at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel in San Ignacio, Cayo. Over the years, the Symposium has grown into Belize’s premier platform for showcasing cutting-edge archaeological research, fostering collaboration, and strengthening our national commitment to cultural heritage preservation.

Researchers, students, and partner institutions have expressed a renewed interest in expanding the Symposium’s academic engagement. In response, this year’s event will once again feature poster exhibitions displayed throughout all three days of the Symposium, allowing attendees to explore ongoing projects, discuss methodologies, and engage directly with presenters in an informal setting.

The BAS continues to be recognized as the leading source for current archaeological information in Belize. The Institute of Archaeology remains dedicated to supporting and promoting research across a wide range of specializations, including Maya, Colonial, Underwater, and Cave Archaeology, as well as investigations into the Archaic, Paleo-Indian, and Historic periods. As the landscape of archaeological science evolves, the Symposium also embraces emerging fields such as digital archaeology, heritage management strategies, and community-based research initiatives.

One of the defining strengths of the Symposium is its format. Presentations are scheduled in 30-minute sessions, consisting of a 20-minute lecture-style presentation followed by a 10-minute question-and-answer period. This approach encourages meaningful engagement, providing space for direct dialogue between presenters and the audience. Participants have consistently praised this dynamic exchange, an element often missing from larger international conferences.

As we mark two decades of scholarship, collaboration, and discovery, the 20th BAS invites archaeologists, students, tour guides, cultural heritage practitioners, and enthusiasts to join us in celebrating Belize’s rich and diverse past. We look forward to three days of insightful presentations, stimulating discussions, and new opportunities to shape the future of archaeological research in Belize.