The Ancient Maya

From the Pre-Classic to the Post-Classic Period in Mesoamerica

Discover the ancient Maya’s long history in Mesoamerica and their remarkable achievements in art, astronomy, and architecture

The ancient Maya are known for their incredible architecture, writing system, and calendar systems

The Classic Maya

c. 250–600 CE

This is the period of city-states like Palenque, Tikal, Yaxchilán, and Bonampak
Jade green mask of Pakal

Important Names and Places

K’inich Janaab’ Pakal

Palenque

Yaxchilán

Bonampak

The Maize God

K’awiil

Important terms and concepts

Ancient Maya

City-state

Jade

Stela

Vision Serpent

Roof comb

Maya Blue

Mural

The Epi-Classic and Post-Classic Maya

The Maya at Chichén Itzá and elsewhere in the Post-Classic offer exciting opportunities to talk about contact, cultural complexity, and trade

Important terms and concepts

Skull rack (tzompantli)

Ballgame

Chichén Itzá

Yucatán Peninsula

Related Resources

  • South America

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  • Ancient Andes

    Go

  • All of the Americas

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  • Later Mesoamerica

    Go

  • Early Mesoamerica

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