Lost Mayan Structures Discovered in Mexican Jungle
Archaeologists studying the jungles of Mexico have discovered lost structures built by the Mayan civilization. Among these findings are majestic pyramids, a civic-ceremonial center, and an underground structure hidden beneath a ball court.
Recent excavations were carried out by the Mexican National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) in the center of the state of Campeche, known for its ancient Mayan ruins. This time, the research was focused on the little-studied forest in the Balam-Ku Biosphere Reserve, which covers approximately 140 square kilometers, reports IFLScience.
Notable discoveries include a civic-ceremonial center and several structures, including a main square with a pyramid-like construction. In another location, a 13-meter-high building was found, which was likely used for rituals.
Researchers also identified a ball court, located on a structure belonging to the early classical period (200-600 AD). Another interesting finding was a 16-meter-high pyramid and various artifacts that indicate its importance in the late post-classical period (1250-1524 AD).
The use of LiDAR technology proved to be extremely useful in tropical regions, allowing the revelation of hidden structures overgrown with dense vegetation. This technology helps expand our understanding of pre-Columbian civilizations and their complex settlements.
