A groundbreaking archaeological discovery has emerged from the depths of the Mexican jungle.
In the heart of a biological reserve in Campeche State, researchers have discovered the remains of an ancient Mayan city, called “Ocomtún” after the stone columns prevalent on the site.
The city’s existence had remained virtually unknown to the archaeological community, but thanks to innovative lidar technology, it has been unveiled as a significant center of Mayan life between the years 250 and 900 AD.
Lidar, which stands for light detection and ranging, played a pivotal role in this incredible discovery.
Deployed through aerial surveys, the lidar equipment emitted laser bursts that enables scientists to see through thick vegetation.
By analyzing the laser reflections, the researchers could distinguish between ground features and trees, essentially creating a detailed map of the hidden city’s topography.
After arriving at the hidden city on foot, the lidar findings proved to be accurate. Upon arrival, the presence of three plazas and impressive 50-foot-tall structures resembling pyramids were discovered.
Additionally, pottery dating back to the years 600 to 800 AD was unearthed, providing valuable insights into the city’s historical context.
Researchers are currently focused on understanding the way of life of the people of Ocomtún before European arrival, and each new discovery adds a crucial piece of information to this historical puzzle.
The National Center for Airborne Laser Mapping has had previous success in pinpointing other Mayan cities and archaeological sites.
Notably, their lidar missions led to the identification of architectural wonders in Caracol, Belize and the legendary White City in Honduras, among others.
As research in Ocomtún commences, experts anticipate that it will provide vital clues to unravel the ancient mysteries of the exquisite Mayan civilization.
From its dynastic affiliations to its relationships with neighboring communities, Ocomtún holds the promise of rewriting history books and expanding our understanding of this enigmatic pre-Columbian culture.
The discovery highlights the immense potential of cutting-edge technologies in revealing humanity’s buried past and stands as a testament to the enduring allure of archaeological exploration.
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