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Town in Cayo District, Belize
Photo: Denis Barthel, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Benque Viejo del Carmen, usually shortened to Benque Viejo or simply Benque, is a small border town in the Cayo District of western Belize. It lies along the Mopan River only a short distance from the international border with Guatemala and about 13 km west of San Ignacio.
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A former police station converted into a cultural centre operated by Belize's National Institute of Culture and History. Exhibits and programs explore Benque's Mestizo heritage, local history, traditional music, art and community celebrations. The centre is closely associated with the town's marimba and sawdust-tapestry traditions.
The principal Roman Catholic church in Benque and one of the focal points of the town's cultural life. The parish is particularly important during Holy Week and celebrations associated with Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Visitors should dress respectfully and avoid disrupting services.
By car
From San Ignacio, follow the George Price Highway west through the Cayo countryside toward Benque Viejo.
By taxi
Taxis operate between Benque, San Ignacio, the western border and surrounding communities.
From Guatemala
The principal overland route from Guatemala enters Belize between Melchor de Mencos in Petén and Benque Viejo del Carmen.
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San Benito · Regional · FRS
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