Nearly 3,000 year-old Maya city unearthed. Why it's named \
Nearly 3,000 year-old Maya city unearthed. Why it's named "The Grandparents"
Show Caption
Hide Caption
Tourist climbs sacred Mayan pyramid in Mexico
A German tourist was escorted from an archaeological complex when he climbed and attempted to evade security at a Mayan pyramid in Mexico.
An international team of archaeologists announced the discovery of a nearly 3,000-year-old ancient Maya city in a northeastern area of Guatemala known for its tropical forests and ruins.
The site "Los Abuelos," Spanish for 'The Grandparents," was a ritual center for the entire region, the country's culture ministry said in a statement on Thursday, May 29, and home to one of the oldest and most prominent Maya shrines yet discovered. It takes its name from the discovery of two human-like sculptures found at the site, called an "ancestral couple" by researchers.
The city, along with two other nearby sites of Petnal and Cambrayal, constitute an urban triangle researchers say are key discoveries in "the study of the origins of Maya society" in the Petén region of northern Guatemala, which borders Mexico and Belize.
"The discovery of the city called Los Abuelos stands out for its ancient characteristics and its exceptional features of historical value, which contribute significantly to the understanding of the Mayan civilization," the ministry said in the statement.
The Maya civilization lived in modern day Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, El Salvador, and Honduras, with origins dating back 4,000 years, around 2,000 B.C, with the heart of its empire based in Guatemala's tropical lowlands. Northern Guatemala's Petén Province, where the ruins were found, is a large forest region with thousands of architectural and artistic remains of the Maya civilization. They date from the Preclassic Period of 600 B.C. to the decline and eventual collapse of the empire's urban centers around 900 A.D., according to UNESCO.
More: Lasers reveal Mayan civilization of 'unimaginable scale'
More archaeological news: Iron Age find: British 'bling' from 2,000 years ago included horse harnesses
Archaeologists found Los Abuelos was occupied as early as 800 B.C., Guatemala's culture ministry said, making the city more than 2,800 years old. In a palace in the nearby settlement of Cambrayal, archaeologists found what they call a sophisticated system of canals, the statement said, and in the other site of Petnal, they found a 108-foot pyramid with murals.
The excavation was funded in part by the Comenius University of Bratislava, Slovakia, under the direction of Dr. Milan Kovác, and aided by an international consortium of researchers and supporters.
The discoveries are part of the wider Uaxactún Archaeological Project, a 17-year effort to expand archaeological research across a 460 square-mile area surrounding the original Uaxactun archaeological site. The ancient city of Los Abuelos is roughly 13 miles northeast of Uaxactún.
Uaxactun is one of the earliest Maya archaeological sites in the Maya lowlands, according to the World Monuments Fund, becoming a foundation for modern Mesoamerican studies when formal research into the site began in 1924. It lies within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Maya Biosphere Reserve in Tikal National Park, though it does not get nearly as many visitors as the nearby Tikal site. It was included on the 2014 World Monuments Watch, a list curated by the non-profit organization to highlight monuments facing urgent challenges and timely preservation opportunities.
Kathryn Palmer is a national trending news reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at kapalmer@usatoday.com and on X @KathrynPlmr.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
32 minutes ago
- Yahoo
How to spend a weekend on the Isle of Wight
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). Package all that's wonderful — and quite frankly quirky — about England, set it adrift in the English Channel, and you'll end up with the Isle of Wight. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it's the UK's largest island and a microcosm of its heritage — all thatched cottages, centuries-old pubs and undulating landscapes. Some of the Victorian era's most influential figures came here to relax and be inspired, and while remnants of their time here remain, the island is hardly preserved in aspic. Today, award-winning distilleries, cool hotels and Michelin-recommended restaurants abound, along with a thriving festival scene. The only way there is by boat, so you're forced to slow down immediately, setting your watch to 'island time'. Make the most of its sunny disposition in summer or come during shoulder season for the walking festivals in May and October, when the beaches are quieter, too. Known to the ancient Romans as 'Vectis', the island appears in the 11th-century Domesday Book as the 'Isle of Wit' — a splendid moniker for a place Queen Victoria would later make her home. Her royal residence, Osborne House, was built in the style of an Italianate palazzo, and is full of 19th-century whimsy. Pay a visit to the Indian-style Durbar Room, an extravagant banqueting hall decorated with intricate plasterwork and pendant lamps. Actors frequently appear in role here, so you may well spot Victoria or Albert gliding down a quiet corridor. You might also spot a member of the island's thriving red squirrel population in the groves leading to Osborne's private beach. To improve your chances, spend a few hours at Parkhurst Forest, an ancient wildlife haven near Newport. Further west lie Yarmouth and the neighbouring village of Freshwater, where Alfred Lord Tennyson once said the air was worth 'sixpence a pint'. The poet laureate (1853-1892) spent many years at nearby Farringford House, a gothic manor surrounded by ornamental gardens. A keen walker, he was known for cutting a dash in his distinctive black cloak over the westerly downs, where you'll find hiking trails and a grand monument named in his honour. Otherwise, explore the historical and contemporary exhibitions on show at Dimbola Museum and Galleries — once home to pioneering Victorian photographer Julia Margaret Cameron. Along with Tennyson and Lewis Carroll, she was a member of 'The Freshwater Circle', a group of bohemian artists and writers who gathered in this coastal corner to discuss their work. West Wight, with its postcard-perfect Needles — a series of three soaring chalk stacks — is ideal for nature-lovers. Overlooking the pebble beach at Freshwater Bay, the newly renovated Albion Hotel has elegant rooms with sage-green interiors and Victorian-style furnishings. Call in for drinks at the nearby Travelling Tavern, a repurposed double-decker bus known for attracting a local crowd. Otherwise, stay in one of the three cosy rooms at family-run Bay Boutique Bed and Breakfast, popping down for their fabulous full English come morning. The Isle of Wight has a balmy microclimate with more hours of sunshine than the UK average, perfect for the island's growers. At The Garlic Farm, you can pick up deli items and try unusual dishes like chocolate and black garlic ice cream (it isn't as pungent as it sounds), watching as red squirrels nibble hazelnuts from feeder boxes. And on the outskirts of Ryde, there's the award-winning Mermaid Gin distillery, the product of which can be sampled at the adjoining Mermaid Bar. The distillery gets its citrus zest from Ventnor Botanic Garden, whose sunny location on the Undercliff allows fruits, flowers and herbs from across the globe to grow outdoors. Published in the June 2025 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
Qatar Living
2 hours ago
- Qatar Living
Qatar, Egypt intensify efforts for Gaza truce
By QLNews • 2 Jun 2025 11:06 Qatar and Egypt announced Sunday that they are continuing their intensive efforts to bridge gaps and overcome points of contention to reach a ceasefire agreement in the Gaza Strip, based on the proposal presented by Steve Witkoff, USA's Special Envoy to the Middle East. The proposal aims to resume indirect negotiations on that basis. In a joint statement, Qatar and Egypt affirmed their intent — in coordination with USA — to intensify efforts to resolve the obstacles facing the negotiation process. Both countries called on all parties to act responsibly and support the mediators' efforts to end the crisis in Gaza Strip and restore stability and calm to the region. The two nations expressed their hope for a swift agreement on a temporary 60-day truce, paving the way for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza. Such an agreement would help alleviate the unprecedented humanitarian crisis, facilitate the opening of border crossings, and allow the entry of humanitarian and relief aid to ease the suffering of the Palestinian people in Gaza and end the war completely. It would also mark the beginning of post-war reconstruction efforts, in line with the plan endorsed at the Arab Emergency Summit in Cairo on March 4. --- Make sure to check out our social media to keep track of the latest content. Instagram - @qatarliving X - @qatarliving Facebook - Qatar Living YouTube - qatarlivingofficial 7 Historic Forts to Explore in Qatar This Eid By Qatar Living · 0 · 2 months 3 days ago Discover Qatar's rich history this Eid by exploring its iconic forts. From the UNESCO-listed Al Zubarah Fort to the scenic Barzan Towers, each site offers a glimpse into the country's past. Whether you're a history buff or looking for a unique adventure, these forts provide the perfect getaway. Fascinating Facts About Qatar You Probably Didn't Know By Qatar Living · 2 · 5 months 3 weeks ago Qatar is a land of fascinating stories, rich traditions, and surprising wonders. From its unique flag to ancient purple dye production, there's so much more to discover about this vibrant nation. Read on to explore Qatar like never before! Beat the Heat: 5 Tips to maintain your car this summer By Qatar Living · 2 · 1 month 1 week ago When Qatar's summer temperatures hit extreme highs keeping your car cool isn't just a luxury, it's a necessity. Here are some smart and practical tips to help your vehicle stay cooler and safer during the hottest months.
National Geographic
2 hours ago
- National Geographic
Queen Victoria loved this UK island—and so will you
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). Package all that's wonderful — and quite frankly quirky — about England, set it adrift in the English Channel, and you'll end up with the Isle of Wight. A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, it's the UK's largest island and a microcosm of its heritage — all thatched cottages, centuries-old pubs and undulating landscapes. Some of the Victorian era's most influential figures came here to relax and be inspired, and while remnants of their time here remain, the island is hardly preserved in aspic. Today, award-winning distilleries, cool hotels and Michelin-recommended restaurants abound, along with a thriving festival scene. The only way there is by boat, so you're forced to slow down immediately, setting your watch to 'island time'. Make the most of its sunny disposition in summer or come during shoulder season for the walking festivals in May and October, when the beaches are quieter, too. Actors frequently appear in role at the Osborne House, so you may well spot Victoria or Albert gliding down a quiet corridor. Photograph by Alamy Images, Chris Howes Where are the best places to discover the island's quirks? Known to the ancient Romans as 'Vectis', the island appears in the 11th-century Domesday Book as the 'Isle of Wit' — a splendid moniker for a place Queen Victoria would later make her home. Her royal residence, Osborne House, was built in the style of an Italianate palazzo, and is full of 19th-century whimsy. Pay a visit to the Indian-style Durbar Room, an extravagant banqueting hall decorated with intricate plasterwork and pendant lamps. Actors frequently appear in role here, so you may well spot Victoria or Albert gliding down a quiet corridor. You might also spot a member of the island's thriving red squirrel population in the groves leading to Osborne's private beach. To improve your chances, spend a few hours at Parkhurst Forest, an ancient wildlife haven near Newport. Further west lie Yarmouth and the neighbouring village of Freshwater, where Alfred Lord Tennyson once said the air was worth 'sixpence a pint'. The poet laureate (1853-1892) spent many years at nearby Farringford House, a gothic manor surrounded by ornamental gardens. A keen walker, he was known for cutting a dash in his distinctive black cloak over the westerly downs, where you'll find hiking trails and a grand monument named in his honour. Otherwise, explore the historical and contemporary exhibitions on show at Dimbola Museum and Galleries — once home to pioneering Victorian photographer Julia Margaret Cameron. Along with Tennyson and Lewis Carroll, she was a member of 'The Freshwater Circle', a group of bohemian artists and writers who gathered in this coastal corner to discuss their work. A selection of homemade chutneys and sauces stand on display at The Garlic Farm, where you can pick up groceries or try unusual dishes like chocolate and black garlic ice cream. Photograph by Alamy Images, Steven Hawkins Photography The Isle of Wight is home to around 3,000 red squirrels. Where should I stay on the island? West Wight, with its postcard-perfect Needles — a series of three soaring chalk stacks — is ideal for nature-lovers. Overlooking the pebble beach at Freshwater Bay, the newly renovated Albion Hotel has elegant rooms with sage-green interiors and Victorian-style furnishings. Call in for drinks at the nearby Travelling Tavern, a repurposed double-decker bus known for attracting a local crowd. Otherwise, stay in one of the three cosy rooms at family-run Bay Boutique Bed and Breakfast, popping down for their fabulous full English come morning. What about local produce? The Isle of Wight has a balmy microclimate with more hours of sunshine than the UK average, perfect for the island's growers. At The Garlic Farm, you can pick up deli items and try unusual dishes like chocolate and black garlic ice cream (it isn't as pungent as it sounds), watching as red squirrels nibble hazelnuts from feeder boxes. And on the outskirts of Ryde, there's the award-winning Mermaid Gin distillery, the product of which can be sampled at the adjoining Mermaid Bar. The distillery gets its citrus zest from Ventnor Botanic Garden, whose sunny location on the Undercliff allows fruits, flowers and herbs from across the globe to grow outdoors. Trains from London Waterloo run to Lymington in Hampshire, where you can catch the Wightlink ferry to Yarmouth. The rest of the island is easily accessed via Newport bus station. Alternatively, ferries depart from Portsmouth and Southampton to other ports. Stay at the Albion Hotel from £160 or The Bay Boutique Bed and Breakfast from £130, both B&B. This story was created with the help of Visit Isle of Wight and Wightlink. Published in the June 2025 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK) To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
