Naachtun is an ancient Maya city located in northern Guatemala, approximately 60 miles northeast of Tikal. The city dates back to around 500 BC and remained an important site until its decline around AD 950. It was situated in the Petén Basin, a region renowned for its dense tropical forests and prominent Maya cities. Naachtun…
The Ancient Maya
Ancient Maya Historical Sites and Ruins
Maya Mythology
Gods and Goddesses
| Kukulkan |
| Chaac |
| Ix Chel |
| Ah Puch |
| Itzamna |
Ancient Maya Artifacts
| Chac Mool |
Maya Codex of Mexico
The Maya Codex of Mexico, also known as the Grolier Codex, is one of the few surviving Maya manuscripts. Dated to the 12th century AD, this codex offers a glimpse into the pre-Columbian Maya civilization. Among the Maya books that still exist, it is the most recent and controversial due to questions surrounding its authenticity.Discovery…
San Bartolo
The San Bartolo Murals: A Glimpse into Late Preclassic Maya BeliefsThe site of San Bartolo, Guatemala, holds the most elaborate series of ancient Maya paintings. These murals offer a rare glimpse into the belief systems of the Late Preclassic Maya. However, looting and uncontrolled tourism threaten their preservation. The San Bartolo Mural Project aims to…
Kiuic
Exploring Kiuic: A Glimpse into Maya CivilizationKiuic, also known as Kaxil Kiuic, is a fascinating Maya archaeological site in the Puuc region of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. Located in the Puuche Hills, about 125 meters above sea level, Kiuic is part of the Kaxil Kiuic Biocultural Reserve. This site offers a well-preserved glimpse into the ancient…
Actun Tunichil Muknal
Actun Tunichil Muknal: A Glimpse into the Mayan UnderworldActun Tunichil Muknal (ATM), also known as the Cave of the Crystal Sepulchre, lies near San Ignacio in Belize’s Cayo District. Locals often refer to it simply as ATM. This cave holds immense significance as a Maya archaeological site, housing a wealth of skeletons, ceramics, and stoneware…
The Expedition to Tikal (1890-1891) by Alfred Percival Maudslay
IntroductionAlfred Percival Maudslay’s expedition to Tikal in 1890-1891 was a seminal moment in the exploration of one of the most important ancient Maya cities. Tikal, located in the dense jungles of modern-day Guatemala, presented unique challenges and opportunities for Maudslay, whose meticulous work laid the groundwork for future archaeological investigations of the site.BackgroundAlfred Percival Maudslay,…