Slovenian-led team uncovers untouched Maya city

A Slovenian-led archaeological team has made a groundbreaking discovery in the heart of the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve in southern Mexico, unearthing an ancient Maya city that has remained untouched for over a millennium. This newly found city, named Minanbe by researchers, spans 15 hectares and includes plazas flanked by palaces and temples, a towering 13-meter-high pyramid, agricultural terraces, and a sophisticated water-management system. The site dates back to the Late Classic period (600–900 AD) and shows no signs of looting, thanks to its remote location deep within the dense jungle. The excavation was led by Ivan Šprajc, a renowned Slovenian Maya specialist affiliated with the Research Centre of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts (ZRC SAZU). Šprajc has spent several decades conducting archaeological research in the Yucatan Peninsula and has contributed to numerous major discoveries. His current work marks a significant milestone, as Minanbe represents the first known Maya site identified in this particular region of the peninsula. The city’s name, Minanbe, translates to “no path” in Yucatec Maya, reflecting the immense challenge faced by the team in accessing the site. After LiDAR technology revealed hidden structures, the archaeologists had to create a 5-kilometer path through thick vegetation using all-terrain vehicles and on foot to reach the city. This effort underscores the isolation of the site and the natural barriers that have preserved it for centuries. The architectural features of Minanbe include a pyramid that exhibits characteristics of the Rio Bec style, known for its finely cut stone masonry, intricate facades, and prominent stairways. These elements suggest that the city was not only strategically located but also architecturally advanced. Alongside the pyramid, the site contains 14 Maya monuments—stelae and altars—arranged along a causeway connecting different parts of the city. Some of these monuments feature hieroglyphic inscriptions and iconographic scenes, indicating that Minanbe played a crucial role as both a political and religious center during its peak. One of the most intriguing findings is Stela 1, which depicts a decapitation scene and includes a calendar inscription corresponding to the year 849 AD. This provides a critical date for determining when the city was abandoned. Other monuments show depictions of Maya rulers adorned with elaborate feathered headdresses and jewelry. One hieroglyphic inscription appears to date back to the end of the 7th century AD and might represent the oldest known written record from the area. According to the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), some of the altars and stelae seem to have been deliberately damaged or relocated following the city's decline. This observation suggests potential shifts in political or ideological dynamics after the settlement's collapse. The preservation of such artifacts offers valuable insights into the social and cultural transformations that occurred in the region during the late classical period. The discovery of Minanbe has been officially recognized and supported by INAH, which regulates archaeological activities in Mexico. The project received approval from the institute’s Archaeology Council, ensuring that the research adheres to strict standards for preserving historical sites. This collaboration between Slovenian and Mexican experts highlights the international nature of modern archaeological efforts and the importance of cross-border cooperation in uncovering the past. As the study of Minanbe continues, researchers aim to further explore its significance within the broader context of Maya civilization. The site's unique features and lack of prior disturbance make it a vital resource for understanding the complexities of ancient societies. Future investigations will focus on deciphering the full extent of the city's history, including its role in regional trade networks, governance structures, and spiritual practices. With ongoing analysis, Minanbe promises to contribute significantly to our knowledge of the Maya world.