The Mayan civilization is considered one of the most glorious in the world history. Its downfall remains a mystery and a current subject of speculation to this day. Mayan culture was developed in the Pre-Classic period, somewhere around 1000 B.C., where it covered southeast Mexico and Central America including Belize, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. It is one diversified culture due to vast geographic and environmental development.

Mayan culture astounded the world with its excellence in many fields of development. First of which is its system of writing. The Mayans were able to develop an intricate form of writing that was widely analyzed during the 1980’s. It was believed by many archaeologists that Mayan writing was strictly based on astronomical figures. This strengthened the concept that Mayans were very earthly people and amicable contemplative stargazers at that, just like most Mesoamerican groups.

Early Mayans were also able to develop and use a numerical system that dealt with three symbols: a shell representing zero, a dot for one and a bar for five. Writing large numbers and performing complex equations were possible by using zero and place notation. They were also able to formulate their very own calendar that surprisingly predicted celestial events like eclipses with astounding precision.

Grand ancient Mayan architecture stunned the world with its majestic temples, spectacular stepped pyramids with intricate carved stone and marvelous cities. It was also deciphered that these structures are made primarily for their gods. Open- area compounds are built in almost every structure – apparently where one can view a religious ceremony that takes place on platforms that are elevated above the city. Although lacking in advanced construction machines like pulleys and wheels, it seems that ancient Mayan civilization is abundant in one important thing: manpower.

Colorful murals, limestone structures with limestone stucco, and building embellished with carvings and stucco – all of which having a complex design and patterns – are the products of the awe-inspiring ancient Mayan art. Their ceramics were decorated with elaborate scenes and came is a wide assortment of forms or shapes. It was also said that Mayan artists affix their signatures to their work – one of the few civilizations in the world who does.

Ancient Mayan religion also remains a subject of awe. They had thought to look up to their leaders or rulers as divine beings. They had traced their family tree to prove that they are descendants of gods. They have unique religious practices including the ball game, ceremonies that often use human sacrifices, and blood-shedding ceremonies wherein royalties pierce their tongues and genitals as an offering to their gods.

Nowadays, Mayan people are called indigenous by locals. Today, Mayan culture still remains vibrant, diverse, and flourishing. It is shown through their colorful handcrafts and clothing. They make pottery, wood carvings of animals and saints, baskets, hand painted chests and toys – all in vivid patterns and colors. Ancient Mayan art carried on over the years despite the speculative collapse of the Mayan civilization.

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