Mayan Civilization Mysteries

The Mayans were among the largest group of American Indians who settled in the Yucatan, in the southeastern part of Mexico. While the Mayans were believed to have existed as far back as 60,000 years ago during the Ice Age, solid proof of their existence only goes back to 2,000BC.

The unearthing of ancient ruins has allowed enthusiasts, historians, and archaeologists to get a glimpse of how the Mayans thrived in the past. Evidence found suggested that these people used very advanced skills and systems. Trade, commerce, and religion were among the most significant aspects of Mayan Civilization.

·         Maya Hieroglyphic Writing illustrates how highly sophisticated this civilization was. In comparison to the phonetic system with only 26 symbols, the Mayans had 800, with each symbol representing one syllable.

·         Mayan Mathematics used the Vigesimal System , which is a 20-base numeric. Take note that the one being used now is the decimal system, or the 10-base numeric. In Mathematics, they use 3 symbols: a dot symbolizes the number 1, a bar symbolizes the number 5, and a seashell symbolizes 0.

·         The Mayans were known for their affinity towards Cosmology . Their rituals were always attuned to the stars and the galaxy.

·         The Mayans had a sacred calendar , using the steps of their temples to account for days, totaling 365. Their priests used 3 methods for their calendar system: the Long Count , the Haab , and the Tzolkin , which is the oldest of all three. It is also interesting to note that the Mayan Calendar predicts the end of the world coming on December 12, 2012.

·         Mayan Architecture was very sophisticated and artistic, as displayed in the Mayan pyramids dating even before the existence of Christ. They constructed huts made of limestone or hay, similar to the ones we see today. Their roofing structures were shaped from domes while others had beams. By far, the most amazing architectural features are the Mayan Temples such as those found in Tikel, Guatemala which has about 3,000 structures within 6 square miles.

The Mayan Civilization was probably the most advanced during their time. Many of their innovations are still being used today, such as their calendar system and astrology. Their architectural structures still inspire designs and patterns being used for constructions built in the present times. The IMAX film, Mystery of the Maya , provides an in-depth documentation of Mayan history. In this film, there is vast information on Mayan glyphic and astronomy, as well as significant historical events and achievements.

Today, there are still some Mayans living in Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize. They have learned to adapt to more modern times, with many of them converted to Christianity and other religions. Although the Mayans still preserve some of their culture and practices, they have also learned to become accustomed to the modern world.