Ancient Maya Capital Discovered in Mexican Backyard
Discovery of the Capital
A recent excavation in Mexico has uncovered the first physical evidence of the ancient Maya capital of Sak Tz’i’, founded in 750 B.C. The discovery was made thanks to the keen eyes of a Mexican cattle rancher who found a large, inscribed tablet in his backyard. The rancher contacted a team of archaeologists, who began an excavation in 2018 that revealed the site of a long-lost city.
Significance of the Discovery
The discovery of the Sak Tz’i’ capital is significant because it provides the first physical evidence of a kingdom that was previously known only from sculptures and inscriptions. The capital, located near the border of what is now Mexico and Guatemala, was home to a population of between 5,000 and 10,000 for around one thousand years.
Geopolitical Implications
The discovery of the Sak Tz’i’ capital also has important geopolitical implications. The kingdom was situated in a complex web of alliances and enmities with other Maya kingdoms in the western Maya area. By studying the inscriptions found at the site, archaeologists can gain a better understanding of the political dynamics of the region.
A Schoolyard Runt
Despite its relatively small size, the Sak Tz’i’ kingdom managed to survive and thrive for centuries. According to anthropologist Charles Golden of Brandeis University, the kingdom may have gained repute by being a sort of “schoolyard runt.” The inscriptions indicate that the residents of Sak Tz’i’ were often “beat up by all these superpowers,” but they also “negotiated alliances with those superpowers at the same time.”
Maya Monuments and Inscriptions
The excavation of the Sak Tz’i’ capital has uncovered several Maya monuments, including a royal palace, a ball court, pyramids, and houses. The site was also heavily fortified, with steep-walled streams and other defensive structures. The most revealing artifacts found at the site are the inscriptions on the tablet, which weave together mythology, poetry, and history. These inscriptions reference gods, a mythical water serpent, and several ancient rulers.
Collaboration with Indigenous Communities
The excavation of the Sak Tz’i’ capital was conducted in collaboration with the indigenous community of Lacanja Tzeltal, where the site is located. Archaeologists have worked to win back the trust of the community, which was damaged by looters in the 1960s. The collaboration between archaeologists and indigenous communities is essential for ensuring that archaeological research is conducted in a respectful and ethical manner.
Challenges and Importance
The excavation of the Sak Tz’i’ capital has been a challenging but rewarding endeavor. Archaeologists have had to overcome obstacles such as looting and the need to collaborate with indigenous communities. However, the discovery of the capital has provided invaluable insights into the history and culture of the ancient Maya.
Ongoing Research
Archaeologists are continuing to excavate and study the Sak Tz’i’ capital. They hope to uncover more artifacts and inscriptions that will shed light on the kingdom’s history and its role in the wider Maya world. The discovery of the capital is a major breakthrough in Maya archaeology, and it is sure to inspire further research and discoveries in the years to come.
