Archaeologists have discovered a vast ancient city hidden underground in Mexico, offering new insights into the Maya civilization. Known for their distinctive temples and cities, the Mayans thrived for centuries but faded around 300 years ago due to factors like war and disease. Modern technology, including radar, now allows researchers to uncover these ancient civilizations, especially in Central America. This new city, named Valeriana, was found using radar in the jungle of Mexico. Though no images of the city exist, archaeologists have recreated its appearance virtually.
The site is believed to have contained up to 7,000 buildings and housed up to 50,000 people at its peak in the 9th century. In addition to homes, the city had amphitheaters, plazas, and even a sports field. The environment would have been vibrant and colorful, with buildings covered in lime plaster and painted in bright colors.
Though the Maya civilization eventually collapsed due to war, climate change, and the Spanish invasion, their descendants still live in the region today. The ancient city lies just 15 minutes from a busy road, with the remains of the Mayan people still buried beneath.
Vocabulary:
• Archaeologists (noun): Experts who study human history and prehistory through excavation of artifacts and structures.
• Radar (noun): A system for detecting objects and measuring their distance and speed by reflecting radio waves off them.
• Canopy (noun): The uppermost branches and leaves of trees in a forest, forming a layer of foliage.
• Plazas (noun): Open public squares, often surrounded by buildings, used for gatherings or ceremonies.
• Lime plaster (noun): A type of plaster made from lime that is used in construction and decoration.
• Descendants (noun): People who are related to someone from an earlier generation, often a great-great-grandchild.
Source: BBC News