The Mayan pyramids

Many years have been spent on the search and restoration of cultural monuments of the ancient Maya civilization. The territory of modern Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, Belize was once populated by this mysterious people. They studied many modern sciences (such as astrology, architecture, writing, astronomy) and achieved considerable success. Maya was the first to invent a calendar that many Europeans used, and today it arouses great interest among scientists of all kinds.

The highest civilization flourished in the 8th century. At this time, their number was estimated to reach five million people. Some experts suggest that they could be three to four times more. The Mayans built stone buildings. To date (thanks to excavations), about 1,000 cities and 3000 settlements created by this people have been discovered. One of the most amazing buildings is the Mayan pyramids. Outwardly they differ from similar structures in Egypt. But, nevertheless, they are the same mysterious and delightful.

By the time of the arrival of the Spaniards, the population of the region was no more than 500 thousand people. Most of the cities are deserted. What happened to the civilization that was incredibly developed at that time? Why were the great cities and pyramids of Maya abandoned?

Despite the profound knowledge of architecture, various arts, the ability to follow the celestial bodies, the Maya practically did not develop agriculture and did not care about the surrounding nature at all. They cut down forests, depleted the soil. In addition to this, droughts often occurred on the peninsula.

Of the Maya domestic animals were only ducks, turkeys and dogs. The main crop they grew was corn. As the population grew, more food was needed. The peasants did not have draft animals and the necessary tools. The area of crops was increased due to deforestation. Without the necessary treatment, the fertile soil layer was eroded. Yields constantly fell. In addition, permanent droughts have not only harmed crops, but also drained water supplies.

As a result of constant natural disasters, lack of food, taxes, the common people lost faith in monarch priests. Beginning endless wars, which finally ruined the once great civilization.

The most famous monuments of ancient civilization, preserved to this day, were and remain the pyramids in Mexico. They are stepped (multilevel) buildings. The oldest are found in the newer buildings. In one of the major cities of those times, Teotihuacan, the most outstanding and unusual Mayan pyramids were discovered. Two of them were erected in honor of the Sun and Moon.

The largest in the world is the pyramid in Cholula. Its size is superior to the pyramid of Cheops. Unfortunately, only a small part of it has survived to date. The pyramid itself is a high hill, on the very top of which is a Catholic temple.

Unlike anything in the world, the mysterious Mayan pyramids have always attracted archaeologists, historians and tourists. Many were lucky enough to find in them real treasures. This people left behind many secrets. Still modern scientists try to unravel and understand some of them.

Despite everything, the Maya failed to preserve the world they had created. Most historians agree that the reason was their enmity and disunity. Many small rulers fought for themselves. In pursuit of power and wealth, they did not notice either the famine, the drought, or the moral fall of their peoples. Civilization destroyed itself long before the arrival of the colonists.