Belizean village San Benito Poite requests British Museum return Maya artifacts, provide $1,000,000 BZD repatriation grant

Jade necklace found at Pusilha – Photo Credit: Institute of Archaeology

By Rubén Morales Iglesias: The British Museum is reviewing a formal request from the village of San Benito Poite, calling for the return of Maya human remains and artifacts removed from the ancient city of Pusilha nearly a century ago, according to Richardson Reports on Word Press.com. The request, signed by Alcalde Manuel Cucul and Chairman Richard Caal, also includes a proposal for a $1,000,000 BZD repatriation grant to help establish a visitor center to house returned relics and support cultural heritage preservation.

San Benito Poite, Belize’s most remote village, sits atop the ancient ruins of Pusilha, a significant yet largely unknown Maya site. Between 1928 and 1931, British Museum expeditions removed carved stelae, altars, ceramics, and lithic artifacts—actions taken without the consent of the Maya people, according to the village resolution. None of the items are currently on exhibit, and many remain unregistered within museum storage.

The village’s demands include the return of human remains for reburial, select artifacts for display at the proposed visitor center, and financial support for scholarships and educational outreach programs. Richardson Reports states that the San Benito Poite’s request joins a growing list of repatriation efforts worldwide, with Egypt seeking the return of the Rosetta Stone, Greece campaigning for the Parthenon Marbles, and Benin calling for the return of bronze sculptures.

Archaeologists have noted Pusilha’s tourism potential, but without institutional support, it has become one of Belize’s most heavily looted Maya sites. Village officials hope that repatriation efforts can help reverse this trend and establish Pusilha as a historical and cultural landmark.

Richardson Reports said the British Museum has acknowledged receipt of the request and stated that it is under consideration, adding that a decision is expected within two months.

San Benito Poite Mayor Manuel Cucul and San Benito Poite Resolution: Michael Richardson