History & Heritage

The Maya Cities of the Jungle

A look at the great Maya cities, their writing and calendars, and why they were abandoned.

B29 min

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1Long before Europeans arrived, the Maya built great cities in the forests of Central America.

2Their stone pyramids rose above the trees and served as temples for their gods.

3Maya priests studied the stars carefully and created calendars of surprising accuracy.

4They also developed a writing system with hundreds of beautiful carved signs.

5Farmers grew corn on terraces and fed large populations in crowded cities.

6Around nine hundred, many southern cities were suddenly abandoned for reasons still debated.

7Scientists believe drought, endless wars, and damaged soil all played a part.

8The jungle slowly covered the empty plazas until explorers rediscovered them centuries later.

9Today laser technology reveals thousands of hidden buildings beneath the thick forest.

10Millions of modern Maya still speak their ancient languages and keep their traditions.

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