#mayacivilization

[whencyclopedia]

Although climate change has today become a much bigger and more globalized problem than in the past, ancient peoples did have to contend with local events that severely disrupted or even ended their way of life as they knew it. A long series of droughts in parts of the Americas led to the abandonment of such cities as Cahuachi in Peru and may have contributed to the collapse of the Maya civilization in Mesoamerica while similar climatic changes in southern Africa likely contributed to the demise of Mapungubwe and Great Zimbabwe. Another notable catastrophe was the Bronze Age Collapse, which had devastating consequences: Climate change, combined with other stressors, brought down the Hittite Empire, the Mycenaean Civilization, Kassite Babylonia and many other states, ushering in a dark age around the Mediterranean. There were, too, the more explosive events that brought total disaster in a matter of hours such as the great floods that are told in so many myths around the world and which archaeology has revealed often have a basis in fact. There were devastating earthquakes such as the one that brought down the walls of Jericho or toppled the Colossus of Rhodes, and the explosions of the volcanoes on Thera and at Pompeii that killed thousands in a moment. All of these events, often exacerbated by overpopulation, overworking the soil, and heavy deforestation of a specific area meant that competition for power and resources became intense as agriculture was disrupted and leaders were challenged. Sometimes, even entire cities and states succumbed. In this collection, we examine these dramatic events and their lasting consequences. Cahuachi was abandoned from the mid-6th century CE, perhaps due to climate change as the local environment became more arid. Earthquakes, too, may have been a contributing factor to the centre's decline. It is interesting to note that the number of geoglyphs created at this time increased, perhaps indicating the urgent need for divine help to meet the crisis. The mounds were systematically covered with earth and so the abandonment of Cahuachi was both planned and deliberate. We also have a free lesson plan for teachers on this subject.

[trendingjournals]

Accidental Discovery Reveals Lost Maya City in Mexican Jungle

A remarkable ancient Maya city, now named Valeriana, has been uncovered deep in the jungles of Campeche, Mexico, centuries after it vanished beneath the foliage.

Using Lidar technology, which employs laser mapping to reveal structures hidden under vegetation, archaeologists discovered pyramids, sports fields, causeways, and amphitheaters. Valeriana, believed to be one of the most densely populated Maya sites after Calakmul, showcases the advanced urban planning of the ancient civilization.

The discovery, which spans an area comparable to Edinburgh, was made almost by chance. Luke Auld-Thomas, a PhD student at Tulane University, stumbled upon a laser survey conducted by a Mexican environmental organization while browsing online. Intrigued, he analyzed the data and uncovered the remnants of a vast city that may have supported a population of 30,000 to 50,000 during its peak from 750 to 850 AD.

Named after a nearby lagoon, Valeriana challenges preconceived notions that the tropical regions of Latin America were devoid of thriving civilizations. Professor Marcello Canuto, a co-author of the research, emphasizes that this area was home to sophisticated cultures, contrary to the belief that it was where “civilizations went to die.”

While the exact reasons for Valeriana's decline remain unclear, climate change is suspected to have played a significant role. The city features distinct elements of a capital, with its buildings concentrated in two main centers about 2 km apart, linked by residential areas and causeways.

Despite its proximity to a major road near Xpujil, the site had never been documented before; locals may have suspected ruins existed beneath the earth mounds. Valeriana encompasses 16.6 square kilometers and includes plazas with temple pyramids, ancient ball courts, and evidence of reservoirs, indicating a well-supported population.

In total, the researchers identified 6,764 structures across three distinct sites, highlighting the densely settled landscape of the ancient Maya. This finding supports the idea that Maya societies were complex urban centers rather than isolated villages.

The study suggests that the Maya civilization's collapse from 800 AD onward may have been exacerbated by overpopulation and climate challenges. Auld-Thomas notes that this landscape was densely populated just as drought conditions began, leading to societal strain.

Furthermore, the region’s history of warfare and Spanish conquest in the 16th century contributed to the downfall of Maya city-states.

The advent of Lidar technology has transformed archaeological practices in densely forested areas, allowing for the discovery of lost civilizations. Prof. Canuto remarks that the use of Lidar has mapped significantly more area in recent years than traditional methods achieved in a century.

Auld-Thomas expresses excitement about the potential for more undiscovered sites, noting that the sheer number of newfound locations exceeds current archaeological resources. “I have to visit Valeriana; it’s so accessible, but whether we can conduct a project there remains uncertain,” he adds.

The findings from this groundbreaking research have been published in the academic journal Antiquity.

[astenback]

For Earth Day this year, we embarked on an exciting adventure to explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Caracol. It's been quite a journey getting here, both literally and figuratively. Our first attempt in 2018 was foiled by a sudden rainstorm that washed out the roads right before our eyes. But this year, luck was on our side as the weather cooperated and we braved the 25+ mile rocky, winding road south from the town of Santa Elena. Located within the Cayo District of Belize, Caracol is an awe-inspiring testament to the rich history and advanced civilization of the Maya people. Covering a massive area of approximately 200 square kilometers, it's even larger than present-day Belize City. The name Caracol comes from the Spanish word for snail or shell, possibly inspired by the winding access road that leads to this remarkable site. One of the highlights of Caracol is the majestic Caana, which means Sky Palace in Maya. This towering pyramid rises over 140 feet (43 meters) above the surrounding jungle canopy, making it one of the tallest man-made structures in Belize. Climbing Caana offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby Maya Mountains and the distant peaks of Guatemala. Happy Belated Earth Day! #Caracol #Caana #MayaCivilization #AncientWonders #EarthDay #BelizeAdventures #Sky #Green #Staircase #Stairs #Tranquility #Growth #ArchaeologicalSite (at Caracol Archaeological Reserve, Belize) https://www.instagram.com/p/Crce4JcqaEN/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[stingscustom]

🚨 Exciting Discovery Alert! 🚨 Recent advancements in laser-mapping technology have revealed extensive ancient Mayan cities, challenging what we thought we knew about their population density. This groundbreaking research reshapes our understanding of the #MayaCivilization and their incredible urbanization. **Key Highlights:** - **Vast Cities Uncovered:** These ancient urban landscapes are larger and more complex than previously imagined. - **Population Density Reimagined:** New findings suggest a thriving civilization that supported a much bigger population than once believed. - **Historical Significance:** This discovery offers insights into how these communities adapted and thrived over time. What does this teach us about the resilience of cultures throughout history? **Join the discussion!** - How do you think this new perspective on the Mayans can inspire us today? - What other civilizations do you think are waiting to be rediscovered? Let's celebrate the richness of human history together! Share your thoughts and reblog to spread the word! 💫 #Archaeology #WednesdayWisdom #WednesdayMotivation #MentalHealth #SCOTUS

[ragneidr]

cats and butterfly , mу art, 297×420 , pencil drawing, 2023

#cat #cats #butterfly #catslover , #blackcat , #siamesecat #blueyeacat , #pyramid #mexico #maya #mayacivilization #animals #nature #yellow #kitten

#pencildrawing #pencilart #blackandwhite #artwork #artragneidr #artgallery #графика #artforsale #artprocess #draw #drawingprocess #drawing #inspiration

[philosophysposts]

The Maya civilization is a fascinating ancient culture that flourished in Mesoamerica from about 2000 BC to the Spanish conquest in the 16th century.

#maya #mayacivilization #ancient #ancientculture @ancient_pages_ #mesoamerica #ancienthistory #civilzation #spanish

[etherandelation]

#mayacivilization #arquitecture #calizastone (en Tikal National Park) https://www.instagram.com/p/B_ZBAZEHmOr/?igshid=16csjcwqj6ter

[rexrio]

Maya civilization Day 9 #art #digitalart #maya #mayans #mayacivilization #civilization #procreate #procreateart #digitalpainting #artthoughts #concept #conceptart #characterdesign #digitalartist #digitalartwork #digitalart #100daysofsketching #100daysofsketchingofficial #100daysofsketching2022 #rexrio https://www.instagram.com/p/CfKdKQJBoFw/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[akata-u]

Chacchoben Mayan Temple, Costa Maya Mexico by Gail K E Chacchoben Mayan ruins were discovered in June 1972, by Dr. Peter Harrison, an American archaeologist, while flying a helicopter over the area and noticed numerous hills in predominately flat lands. He realized there were temples beneath the hills which were covered by soil and vegetation over a period of 2000 years. Settlement by the Maya at this site is estimated at 200 BC, and the structures including large temples and platforms date from 700 AD. Visitors to the site today walk a circular path that includes three excavated and restored pyramids, as well as many walls and staircases. https://flic.kr/p/HVZU6F

[loststoryart]

Ancient Mayan. Kind of failed in creating an authentic Mayan look and ended up with something that looks more like a video game, something out of Tomb Raider. The colours seem a little too dark here. - #artrage #art #artist #artwork #arte #artoftheday #artistsoninstagram #artofinstagram #instaart #digitalart #digitalartist #digitalpainting #painting #paintingart #paintingoftheday #dailyart #dailypainting #ancient #mayan #mayacivilization #mayancivilization (at London, United Kingdom) https://www.instagram.com/p/B39XohzDLCc/?igshid=bn1vljn4dynz

[whencyclopedia]

The Maya Civilization flourished between 250-950 although it drew upon earlier civilizations such as that of the Olmecs (1500 - 200 BCE) and Zapotec (600 BCE - 800 CE) and lasted through the Post-Classic Period of 950-1524. The great cities of the Maya were abandoned during this latter period, prior to the Spanish Conquest of the region. This gallery presents 40 images of some of those cities, both the famous and the lesser-known sites.

[meridaestate]

Posted • @adnmex 🇲🇽𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐎 𝐃𝐄𝐋 𝐉𝐀𝐆𝐔𝐀𝐑⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Oh Soberano de Uxmal,⁣⁣ Quien se ganó ferozmente,⁣⁣ Sentarse en el Mítico Trono del Jaguar,⁣⁣ Gobernador de Galantísimo Ajuar.⁣⁣ Luciendo corona de Chaak sobre su frente.⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ 🇺🇸𝐓𝐇𝐑𝐎𝐍𝐄 𝐎𝐅 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐉𝐀𝐆𝐔𝐀𝐑⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Oh Sovereign of Uxmal,⁣⁣ The one who fiercely won,⁣⁣ Sitting on the Mythical Jaguar Throne,⁣⁣ Governor of Excellent Garments,⁣⁣ Wearing Chaak's crown on his forehead.⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ 🇫🇷𝐓𝐑Ô𝐍𝐄 𝐃𝐔 𝐉𝐀𝐆𝐔𝐀𝐑 ⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ Ô Souverain d'Uxmal,⁣⁣ Féroce et sublime gagnant,⁣⁣ Du trône mythique du Jaguar,⁣⁣ Gouverneur à la Tenue rayonnante,⁣⁣ Sur son front la couronne de Chaak se posant.⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ •⁣⁣ •⁣⁣ •⁣⁣ •⁣⁣ •⁣⁣ ⁣⁣ #uxmal #rutapuuc #yucatan #yucatanmexico #yucatanpeninsula #mayacivilization #ancientmaya #ancientmayanruins #ancientmayans #prehispanico #hunabku #aztectattoo #mayatattoo #unescoworldheritage #unescoworldheritage #mexicoculture #turismomx #mexicolors #mexico_tour #mexico_greatshots #mexico_fotos #mexicomaravilloso #mexique #voyagemexique #mexique🇲🇽 #messico #messico🇲🇽 #messicoenuvole #messico https://www.instagram.com/p/B3j93pkAiuz/?igshid=1cl80q0ddfmlw

[tomochan81]

創刊40周年記念ムー展に行ってきたよ🤗💕 ノストラダムスの大予言、マヤ文明の予言、UMA、ユリゲラー、ビッグフット、ツチノコの賞金はまだ支払われてない模様😂 今でも謎のバミューダトライアングル△✈️ 懐かしくもあり見ているとドキドキワクワクもしてくる #月刊ムー #40周年おめでとうございます ㊗️🎊 ・ ・ #psychic #psychicreading #ufo #bermudatriangle #paranormalism #mystery #mysterybooks #mysterybook #mysterycircle #mayacivilization #maya #occult #occultgirl #occultbooks #occultgirls #月刊ムー40周年 #ムー #ムー展 #オカルト #超常現象 #大好き #バミューダトライアングル #いまだに謎 #ツチノコ #ビッグフット https://www.instagram.com/p/Bscc3k-ndvC/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=rd0wmn5on4mh

[jawscafe]

One of the most amazing water parks I've been!! Over 2000 yards of underground river swimming! 😲 #undergroundrivers #ecotour #ecoarcheological #mayacivilization #archeologicalsite #justaddwater #justkeepswimming #mykindofvacation #coffeefirst #waterbabies #pisces #OGetaway #coffeethatpays (at Xcaret, Quintana Roo, Mexico)

[espressoconpanna7-blog]

Heralded as Guatemala's national hero, Tecún Umán is a symbol of indigenous resistance, a legendary figure of Kaqchikel history who led his people into battle against the Spanish conquest of the Guatemalan highlands in 1524 and refused to surrender. #History #perhapsyouneedalittleguatemala #thebest_capture #vsco #sculptureart #Guatemalacity #instadaily #edited #explore #nationalHero #guatemalan #soy502 #latinoamerica #mayans #culture #mayacivilization

[josefrios]

Science is definitely not human, we have different proofs in different parts of the world. The 🐉 Kukulkán Pyramid, one of the seven wonders of the world 🌎 is one of many spots where you can see perfection in every stone and feel a massive high energy specially on the equinox. 🌓 👽🐲🌙 #yucatanturismo #chichenitza #mayans #kukulkan #pyramid #sevenwonders #travelphotography #igersyucatan #josefrios #tourism #travel #wanderlust #visitmexico #yucatan #photography #photographer #mexico #instagram #vive_mexico #piramide #instatravel #amazing #history #mayacivilization (at Chichén-Itzá, Yucatan, Mexico) https://www.instagram.com/p/B1q1IqwjQBV/?igshid=pm2kbzjb6hnv