In many ways, the ancient Maya lived similarly to people in other past (and even modern day) societies. They made use of nearby resources — like limestone and chert — to construct their cities and homes, engaged in sports and enjoyed a diet rich in corn. The Maya have been celebrated for their stunning architecture, realistic artistic expressions and for advancing our understanding of astronomy and mathematics. They also altered the shape of their own heads, spoke in a myriad of different dialects (many of which are still used today) and often kept their deceased loved ones close by burying them under or within their homes.
For hundreds of years, the ancient Maya flourished in cities located in and around present-day Guatemala. Then, during a period ranging roughly from A.D. 900 to 1100, they rapidly began abandoning their sites — moving so abruptly they even left unfinished construction projects or inscription in their wake. This period known as the “collapse” is one that continues to fascinate archeologists and non-archaeologists alike. However, with continued study and new technologies, researchers are beginning to piece together the story more and more. This is what we know today.
