Original discovery: Almost 3,000 year old Mayan site found in Guatemala!

Original discovery: Almost 3,000 year old Mayan site found in Guatemala!

The discovery of a nearly 3,000-year-old Mayan civilization archaeological complex in Guatemala has attracted international attention. Researchers have discovered the Los Abuelos site and the adjacent sites of Petnal and Cambrayal in Petén Province, which are close to the well-known Uaxactún archaeological site. This discovery represents a significant advance in Maya research as it provides insight into the early development of the civilization, which began around 2000 B.C. BC arose and reached its peak between 400 and 900 AD. Vietnam reports that the discovery team consists of Guatemalan and Slovak archaeologists as well as international experts, with the project supported by Comenius University in Bratislava.

The “Los Abuelos” site is considered one of the oldest and most important of the early Maya civilization. The area covers around 16 square kilometers and was probably an important ritual center. During the excavations, two 1.5 meter high stone sculptures of a human couple were found, which are probably dedicated to the cult of the ancestors. Among the sculptures, the archaeologists found intentionally broken ceramics, indicating ritual sacrificial acts. This is a significant find that enriches the understanding of Mayan ritual practices. Geo highlights that this site was used for ritual purposes for more than 1,000 years and returned to use around 800 AD.

Fascinating finds and structures

In addition to the stone sculptures, numerous other structures were discovered, including an observatory, several pyramids, altars, and fragments of stelae and ceramics. Particularly striking in the area around Petnal is a 33 meter high pyramid, the largest in the area studied, equipped with two well-preserved chambers decorated with frescoes. Cambrayal is notable for a unique water canal system within a palace.

Luis Rodrigo Carrillo, Guatemala's deputy minister of culture and sports, described Los Abuelos as one of the region's most important ceremonial centers. The discovery of these three sites forms a previously unknown urban triangle that illustrates the complexity and influence of the Maya civilization. Modern laser scanning technology (LiDAR) also played a crucial role in making it possible to visualize the structures beneath dense jungle cover, leading to this significant discovery.

The findings from the discovery of this large-scale Mayan complex provide valuable perspectives on the architecture, social life and religious practices of the early Maya and further strengthen interest in the study of this fascinating civilization.