Chichen Itza's dark secrets: decoding Mayan sacrifices

Top image: Chichen Itza, Mexico.

In the world of the ancient Mayans, the practice of sacrifice holds a profound significance. Our focus is directed towards the site of Chichen Itza, where intriguing remnants shed light on the astonishing details of Mayan sacrificial rituals. The Mayan Empire, encompassing vast regions of southern Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, and the Yucatan, has intrigued scholars for centuries. Recent discoveries challenge the traditional notion of their disappearance, suggesting connections that extend as far as the United States. Through the examination of their architectural marvels, linguistic correlations, and shared astronomical knowledge, a complex tapestry of historical interactions unfolds.

Of particular importance is the enigmatic Maya blue pigment, intricately linked to their religious practices and sacrificial ceremonies . These rituals involved offerings, including human sacrifices, as acts of devotion to appease their deities and secure favorable outcomes. By studying artifacts, murals, and the remains discovered in cenotes (natural sinkholes), we gain valuable insights into the Mayan worldview and their unwavering commitment to their spiritual beliefs. This investigation into the realm of ancient Mayan sacrifices offers a deeper understanding of a civilization that continues to captivate and challenge our perception of the past.

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By Robbie Mitchell

I’m a graduate of History and Literature from The University of Manchester in England and a total history geek. Since a young age, I’ve been obsessed with history. The weirder the better. I spend my days working as a freelance writer researching the weird and wonderful. I firmly believe that history should be both fun and accessible.

(Source: ancient-origins.net; June 15, 2023; https://tinyurl.com/mtfyrc6v)
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