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Parque Central

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Jose Kevo
Jose Kevo
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5 out of 5
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Parque Central

  • December 28, 2007
  • Rated 5 of 5 by Jose Kevo from Middle-of-Nowhere, Missouri
Parque Central

Typical of Spanish influence, Copán Ruinas is concentrated around Parque Central as the axis of existence. In a town where streets have no names, Parque Central becomes the reference point when asking/receiving directions, or trying to pin-point locations on maps.

Consider it the Alpha and Omega; the potential beginning and end for all that transpires. And, don't hesitate to indulge the in-betweens! These gathering spots define a pueblo's character; this one certainly unique for a population descended from the Mayans.

A majestic arbor hems the north and east sectors into a centralized gathering area. Columns have viewing-level display cases that contain intricately-designed relics and artifacts from the past civilization. They're worth close inspection as is society from the present.

As heart of the community, the central gathering spot is always a great place for checking the pulse while absorbing culture. For locals, it's a place to see and be seen while exchanging information, or even pausing to join a sing-along. For inclined (and reclined) travelers, it's a People Watching Paradise. If you speak the language, I'm always amazed at how eager most are to engage in conversation beyond general greetings; Copán Ruinas no exception.

The park's southern perimeter is lined with a massive stone wall that looks like something from the ancient indigenous city. It's actually backdrop of a small stage for public performances. Of an afternoon the small entry alcoves doubled as private clubhouses for school children, and concealed young lovers as twilight faded.

The surreal bubble effect is completed thanks to verdancy. Lush tropical gardens were some of the best I've ever seen with varieties of plants, blossoms, and fragrances; further magnified and crowned with Flamboyán trees ablaze in May. With angled entries into the park, the well-manicured outgrowth naturally obstructs the world beyond except for the small Cathedral.

Spaniards always placed the town's Catholic institute across the street for "congregation" convenience. The Copán Ruinas church looks rather plain and simple from the outside, and was never found open for seeing if interior contained hidden finds. Actually, best glimpses/photos of the church come with partial views from inside the park.

-- Pulpería, the Honduran version of a convenient store, are scattered across from the park for picking-up drinks and snacks to enjoy during down-time. Roving vendors also circulate, selling a bit of everything.

-- The park stays quite active day and night; even once streets have cleared after the sun goes down. Safety was never an issue; the town's Police Headquarters are just across along the western border.

-- Moto-taxis are easy to catch from anywhere in town, but seemed to be in most abundance along the park's northern border.

From journal Copán Ruinas - The Town

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