PETÉN ITZÁ, LAKE


Meaning of PETÉN ITZÁ, LAKE in English

Lake, northern Guatemala.

It is about 27 mi (48 km) long and covers an area of 38 sq mi (98 sq km). The region was a stronghold of the Maya Itzá Indians, who were not conquered by the Spanish until 1697. The lakeshore is now dotted with towns such as Flores and San Benito. Much of the surrounding land is covered with dense rainforest, but there is some cultivation of cacao, sugarcane, and tropical fruits around Flores.

Britannica Concise Encyclopedia.      Краткая энциклопедия Британика.