The Mysterious Mayas

A long time ago, around 2500 BCE, an ancient tribe of Central American Indians called the Olmecs settled in the rainforests of the Yucatan Peninsula of Central America.

About two thousand years later, around 400 BCE, a new people suddenly appeared. These people were called the Mayas. They soon took over the Yucatan Peninsula of Central America.

The Mayas were very clever people. Their system of mathematics was among the most sophisticated in the ancient world.  The Mayas were master builders. They did not have metal tools. Their tools were made of stone, bone, and wood. Yet they built beautiful structures, huge cities, and excellent roads. 

Around 900 CE, Maya Cities Were Abandoned

Then, one day, around 900 CE, the Mayas disappeared.  A few people continued to live in the cities, but mostly, the cities were .. empty.  The people had, for the most part, disappeared, gone somewhere else.  Those who remained were unable or unwilling to repair the magnificent roads and buildings. The great Maya cities fell into ruin. 

To this day, nobody knows where they came from, and nobody knows where they went. That's why the Maya are sometimes referred to as "the mysterious Mayas". 

During the 1500 years or so that the Mayas made their home in Central America, they build hundreds of religious centers, each filled with huge pyramids, elaborate temples, and at least one ball court. Excellent roads  ran for miles through the jungles and swamps, and linked these centers of religion and learning. 

Today, archaeologists remain very curious about these ancient people. Archaeologists face many face many dangers to hunt for the ruins of these ancient cities hidden deep in the jungle of Central America. 

All Rights Reserved    Clip Art Credit: Phillip Martin Have a great year!