A recent archaeological discovery in Guatemala has shed new light on the ancient Maya civilization. The uncovering of a nearly 3,000-year-old city known as Los Abuelos has revealed a wealth of information about this early Mesoamerican society.
Los Abuelos, which translates to “The Grandparents” in Spanish, is believed to have been a significant ceremonial center dating back to 800 to 500 BC. The city, located in Guatemala’s Petén region, covers approximately six square miles and features impressive architectural structures such as pyramids, sacred sanctuaries, and monuments adorned with unique regional iconography.
Recent excavations have unearthed relics dating back to 500-300 BC, providing insights into ancient ritual practices and ancestor worship among the Maya people. The discovery of Los Abuelos has been hailed as a groundbreaking find, offering valuable historical insights into the Mayan civilization.
The Mayan civilization, which thrived between 2000 BC and 900 AD, encompassed present-day southern Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, and Honduras. The newly discovered city of Los Abuelos adds to our understanding of the complex ceremonial and sociopolitical organization of the Maya people.
The excavation was a collaborative effort between Guatemalan and Slovak archaeologists, as well as other international professionals. The team uncovered a 108-foot pyramid with two preserved rooms at its peak, adorned with murals depicting symbolic scenes. Additionally, a nearby palace revealed unique water canals, providing further evidence of advanced urban planning in ancient Maya cities.
Overall, the discovery of Los Abuelos has deepened our understanding of the ancient Maya civilization and its cultural practices. The findings have prompted a reevaluation of pre-Hispanic Petén and have opened up new avenues for research into this fascinating ancient society.
