Mayan sites and causeways in the Mirador-Calakmul Karst Basin (MCKB).
(Photo:Hansen et al.)
The ancient Maya of Central America created incredible civilizations.
Mayan sites and causeways in the Mirador-Calakmul Karst Basin (MCKB). (Photo:Hansen et al.)
The Mayan Empire peaked in what is known as its classical period from 250 C.E.
However, in the proceeding preclassical period from around 1800 B.C.E.
to 250 C.E., the Maya were expanding and developing their settlements in the lowlands.
(a) LiDAR image showing triadic structures in the civic center of El Mirador (b) LiDAR 3D view showing the pyramidal complex of La Danta, located on the east side of the civic center at El Mirador.(Photo:Hansen et al.)
The structures were discovered using LiDAR, a laser system that can scan through rainforests to discover hidden architecture.
Many of the settlementsindependent architectural clustersare connected by 110 miles of elevated dirt causeways.
This interconnectivity implies the region’s inhabitants had rich economic, political, and social ties.
LiDAR images of selected triadic monumental structures. (Photo:Hansen et al.)
The laser technology also revealed monumental architecture in many of the settlements.
This includes platforms and pyramids which were used for ritual and entertainment purposes.
Ball courts were also spotted, where inhabitants played regional versions of ball games.
Causeways in the forest. (Photo:Hansen et al.)
Reservoirs and canals indicate a sophisticated water delivery and storage system.
The penultimate example of a preclassical Mayan city isEl Mirador, an already-known settlement.
Abandoned about 2,000 years ago, it was home to 200,000 people.
Its enormous pyramids, platforms, and temples outshine later classical Mayan cities.
The connections between the settlements indicate a Mayan civilization even more advanced at an early date than previously known.
Researchers using LiDAR laser technology have discovered a complex ancient Mayan civilization in Northern Guatemala.
(Photo:Hansen et al.)
LiDAR images of selected triadic monumental structures.
(Photo:Hansen et al.)
The civilization flourished around 2,000 years ago.
Causeways in the forest.
(Photo:Hansen et al.)
