Santa Rita, a Maya archaeological reserve near Corozal Town, Belize, likely corresponds to the ancient Maya city known as Chetumal, according to historical evidence. Excavations reveal a rich history of habitation dating back to 2000-1200 BCE, with its peak significance during the Postclassic era and continued occupation even after the Spanish arrival. Positioned strategically to control trade routes between the coast and major rivers like Río Hondo and Río Nuevo, Santa Rita thrived as a dominant settlement in the Chetumal region during the early Classic period. Despite a brief decline in the Late Classic period, Santa Rita regained prominence and served as the capital of the Chetumal Province under the Cocom dynasty of Mayapán until 1441, when it was overthrown by an uprising, marking the end of Mayapán supremacy.