Maya pyramid reveals dynasty collapse
Archaeologists uncovering a Maya pyramid in Guatemala made a startling find: the charred remains of at least four adults, likely members of royalty, along with thousands of burned artifacts. The discovery, detailed in a recent study published in Antiquity, sheds light on a dramatic collapse of a Maya dynasty and the rise of a new type of leader.
The bones, adorned with greenstone jewelry and other royal trappings, were found in a chamber beneath the temple, buried under layers of construction material. This unconventional burial suggests a deliberate act of desecration, contrary to the typical treatment of royal remains in Maya society.
Radiocarbon dating placed the burning of the bones between 773 and 881 AD, decades after the individuals’ deaths, indicating a deliberate ritual possibly linked to significant political changes. The study suggests that this event coincided with the rise of a new leader named Papmalil, whose foreign origins and military associations marked a shift in Maya politics.
While the burning of royal remains wasn’t unprecedented in Maya culture, the scale of this event implies a public spectacle, possibly to symbolize the transition of power. The absence of scorch marks in the chamber suggests that the burning likely occurred elsewhere, possibly in a public plaza.
This discovery offers valuable insights into Maya society’s dynamics during a time of political upheaval and transformation. It highlights not only the collapse of political dynasties but also the resilience and continuity of Maya culture amidst change. Further excavations at the site may reveal additional clues about this pivotal period in Maya history.
