Maya Altar Built by Teotihuacán: Archaeological Discovery

mexico city - Archaeologists uncover 1,700-year-old altar in Tikal, Guatemala, potentially built by Teotihuacán, revealing Maya-Teotihuacán complex relationship.

Maya Altar Origin Mystery

Archaeologists find 1,700-year-old altar in Tikal, Guatemala, believed to be built by Teotihuacán, not the Maya.

Discovery in Tikal

• Altar adorned by Teotihuacán artists in the ancient Maya city of Tikal, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Teotihuacán, a massive city with over 100,000 residents, influenced Tikal culture significantly.

Complex Relationship

Teotihuacán likely had hostile forces building the enclave in Tikal, indicating a complex Maya-Teotihuacán connection.

Archaeological Findings

• Discovery supports historical conflicts between Maya and Teotihuacán, dating back to 378 AD.
• Human remains, possibly child sacrifices, found around the altar resembling Teotihuacán burial rituals.
• Complex relationship depicted by similar burial practices and ritualistic designs found at the site.

Significance of the Discovery

Unveiling a unique relationship between Maya and Teotihuacán cultures, shedding light on ancient Mesoamerican history.