Belize

Belize (formerly known as British Honduras) is a small country in Central America, bordered by the Caribbean Sea, Guatemala, and Mexico. It is famed for its beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, diverse culture, and surprising official language: English.

The desirable region has been fought over ever since the arrival of Europeans, particularly between the Spanish and British. The British successfully acquired the country as a colony in 1854, naming it British Honduras. It only gained independence (and its new name) in 1981, and is still disputing its borders with Guatemala.

Despite its relatively small size (population: 308,000), Belize is a country of great cultural diversity. Most of the population speaks Spanish or Creole, while smaller percentages speak Mayan dialects. Only about 4 percent of the population speaks English, despite the language's official status and British colonial past. The majority religion in Belize is Roman Catholicism (50%), followed by Protestantism (27%). Native Mayan rituals and beliefs still flourish in Belize as well. Follow a link below to learn more about the spiritual heritage of Belize.

Belize Country Guide

English Name: Belize Local Name: Belize (formerly British Honduras) Time Zone: Central Time (UTC-6) Calling Code: 501 Currency: Belize dollar (BZD) Area: 22,966 sq km Population: 307,899 (July 2009 est.) Languages: Spanish 46%, Creole 32.9%, Mayan dialects 8.9%, English 3.9% (official), Garifuna 3.4% (Carib), German 3.3%, other 1.4%, unknown 0.2% (2000 census) Religions: Roman Catholic 49.6%, Protestant 27% (Pentecostal 7.4%, Anglican 5.3%, Seventh-Day Adventist 5.2%, Mennonite 4.1%, Methodist 3.5%, Jehovah's Witnesses 1.5%), other 14%, none 9.4% (2000)

Belize Sacred Sites Index Browse our illustrated index of sacred sites and religious places Belize Map A detailed interactive map of Belize with major cities and religious sites marked, plus links to travel maps and more Belize Books A hand-selected gallery of books on Belize specially chosen for Sacred Destinations readers Religion in Belize An overview of the primary religions of modern Belize. Belize Hotels Search availability, view photos, read reviews, and get a great deal on a hotel room in Belize Belize Flights Enter dates to compare prices from multiple travel sites

Featured Destinations in Belize (List All Destinations) Caracol This important Mayan city flourished in the 6th century and now lies in ruins in western Belize near Guatemala. Hidden in the jungle until 1938, it contains pyramids, tombs and Mayan art.

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