Unique and interesting things that have just been discovered about the Maya people.

The Maya civilization is fascinating, with many unique and interesting aspects. Here are eight amazing facts about the Maya:

1. An Accurate and Complex Calendar System
   The Maya developed multiple calendars, including the Haab’ Calendar (365 days, similar to the modern calendar) and the Tzolk’in Calendar (260 days, used for religious rituals). They also had the Long Count Calendar, which tracked time over thousands of years and was mistakenly associated with the "2012 doomsday" (which was actually just the start of a new cycle).

2. They Built Great Cities Without Using Metal Tools
   Despite not using metal tools like iron or steel, the Maya built massive stone cities, pyramids, and temples using only limestone and simple stone tools. Famous Maya cities include Tikal, Palenque, and Chichén Itzá, many of which still stand today.

3. A Complex Hieroglyphic Writing System
   The Maya developed one of the most sophisticated writing systems of the ancient world, consisting of over 800 hieroglyphic symbols. They used it to record history, astronomy, and religious texts on stone monuments and books made from tree bark (codices).

4. Human Sacrifices Were Part of Their Beliefs
   The Maya practiced human sacrifices as offerings to their gods. Victims were sometimes thrown into sacred cenotes (sinkholes) or sacrificed on temple altars as part of religious ceremonies.

5. They Played a Ball Game with Rubber Balls
   The Maya played a game called Pok-A-Tok, using solid rubber balls on large stone courts. The game had deep religious significance, and in some cases, the losing team (or captain) could be sacrificed to the gods.

6. Advanced Hydraulic Technology for Water Management
   Despite living in regions prone to drought, the Maya developed sophisticated irrigation systems, reservoirs, and underground canals to collect and distribute rainwater, ensuring a stable water supply for their cities.

7. Body Modifications for Beauty
   The Maya considered an elongated forehead a sign of beauty, so they would bind babies’ heads with wooden boards to reshape their skulls. They also decorated their teeth by embedding jade or precious stones, making their smiles more attractive.

8. Maya Descendants Still Exist Today
   Although the ancient Maya civilization collapsed, their descendants still live in Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. Many still speak Maya languages and maintain traditional customs, preserving their rich heritage.

The Maya civilization was truly extraordinary, with innovations and traditions that continue to inspire us today! 🚀

By. @Septadhana