Belize city

Belize City is located in the heart of the country. From there you will be able to make your connection to everywhere else you want to go; from taking a bus to go north and visiting the Community Baboon Sanctuary, Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary and other attractions to catching a boat to the Cayes to taking a bus to visit relaxing Placencia, the adventurous Cockscomb Basin, the only Jaguar Reserve in the world to the mysterious archaeological sites such as Caracol and Xunantunich and the interesting Mountain Pine Ridge area.

Not only is Belize City your gateway to mystic Maya Sites (only found in Central America), adventurous caves, rivers, unique flora, fauna and relaxing breathtaking beaches, but it is also filled with history. Belize City has the only manual swing bridge in the world which is still being swung daily.

The oldest Anglican Cathedral Church in Central America, St. John's Cathedral, was built in 1812 from bricks brought as ballast from European sailing ships. Over the years, Government House (now the House of Culture Museum) was used as an administrative office and living quarters for the governors of Belize. This was built in early 1800 with a combination of Caribbean Vernacular and English Urban architecture.

The Lighthouse monument at Fort George Point towers over the harbor entrance. This was built form money donated to the country by Belize's greatest benefactor - Baron Bliss, the 5th baron of Portugal. At his request, he was entombed in front of the lighthouse which he designed himself prior to his death. City tours are available offering in-depth history of the city.

Other stops along the Belize City historical tour include the:

Museum of Belize

Built as a colonial prison in the mid 1800s, this two-story brick building on Gabourel Lane has a permanent exhibit of ancient Maya pottery as well as displays on the history of Belize City and Belize's rich Maya history.

Yarborough Cemetery

Although it saw its most recent burial in 1891, the old Yarborough Cemetery, Belize's first public cemetery, still serves as a valuable resource for researchers and curiosity seekers alike looking for a glimpse into past lives.

Belize Tourism Village

The Belize Tourism Village is located on the Belize River mouth, about 15 minutes away from cruise ship anchorage. Specifically designed to cater to cruise lines, the Village has courtyards and terminals offering bathroom facilities, restaurants, snack bars, entertainment (on cruise ship days), access to land and marine tours as well as a variety of local souvenirs, jewelry and clothing.

Maritime Museum

Located on the Belize River, next to the Swing Bridge, the Maritime Museum introduces visitors to a history of Belize's fishing and boat building industries.