Mayan Empire
By:River Petry
Mayan Location
the Maya were centered in one geographical block covering all of the Yucatan Peninsula and modern-day Guatemala, Belize, and parts of the Mexican state of Tabasco and the western part of Honduras and El Salvador.
Life in the Rainforest
Traditionally, ancient people had lived in drier climates, though, In the southern Maya lowlands, however, there were few rivers for trade and transport, as well as no obvious need for an irrigation system.By the late 20th century, researchers had concluded that the climate of the lowlands was in fact quite environmentally diverse. The Maya took advantage of the area’s many natural resources, including limestone (for construction), the volcanic rock obsidian (for tools and weapons) and salt. The environment also held other treasures for the Maya, including jade, quetzal feathers and marine shells, which were used as trumpets in ceremonies and in warfare.
Some Ancient Mayan Civilizations
Chichen Itza
Chichen Itza was the dominant Maya city-state during the end of the Classic period and the Post-classic period. It is the home of many famous structures including
Tikal
Tikal became one of the most powerful city-states in the history of the Maya civilization during the Classic period of Maya history. The city was large and had thousands of structures including six large pyramids. The tallest pyramid is called Temple IV at over 230 feet high.
El Mirador
El Mirador was one of the first large city-states of the Maya civilization. It is thought that, at its peak, over 100,000 people lived in the city. The central center of the city covered ten square miles and had over a thousand buildings.
Fun Fact:Around 1.2 million people visit the Chichen Itza site each year.
10 Interesting Facts About The Ancient Mayans