Posted on Wednesday, 8 May 2019

Archeologists and explorers in Guatemala have uncovered a host of lost Mayan treasures in recent weeks, including a beautiful ceremonial vessel for drinking chocolate and the remains of a queen.

The discoveries appear in a new National Geographic TV show, which also reveals a skull found in an underground cave that appeared to be used as an incense burner, together with a number of pyramids - all recently found using Lidar laser mapping technology.

The Lidar system has also revealed some 60,000 structures, including whole cities and pyramids, all hidden deep in the Guatemalan jungle.

Lidar uncovered the full extent of an ancient city known as Holmul, which was far bigger than previously estimated. In it, a former palace throne room was excavated, where archeologists found two sets of remains - a male and a female - who experts believe were a king and a queen.

The king was accompanied by a 'vase' or pot, bearing the name of a king from a nearby city, suggesting that the king gave the pot as a gift - a common occurrence. The pot was used for drinking chocolate, according to the archeologists.

The burial of the king is thought to have taken place between 554 and 558 AD.

The National Geographic show also documents the very recent discovery of more pyramids, located in the city of Witzna in the country's north.

The findings come as Graham Hancock's new book, America Before, is released. The book discusses the likelihood of ancient civilisations in North and South America and suggests - among many other things - that there are probably hundreds of ruined cities hidden in the Amazon rainforest, having become overgrown after being been wiped out in the 16th century by Spaniards carrying smallpox.

Visiting Guatemala's ancient ruins

Since they are such a recent find, there are no official tours to the new sites, but there are plenty of other amazing Mayan ruins to explore, right across Guatemala. Among the most famous are the pyramids at Tikal. Descendants of this great civilization can be found wearing traditional dress in nearby towns and villages. You'll even see evidence of the occasional modern-day sacrifice at ancient ruins, demonstrating that Mayan culture is still going strong.

Remnants of the Spanish empire

The Spanish landed in Central America hundreds of years ago, in search of gold and other natural resources. During their time here they built many beautiful cathedrals and churches, loved for their colourful tiles and vivid brickwork. Most of the finest examples are found in the former capital Antigua, but you'll find many other wonderful churches in surrounding villages.

Outdoor adventures

Guatemala boasts a wealth astonishing outdoor vistas, particularly in the national parks of the Petén region. You can also enjoy a boat ride in the dramatic Río Dulce - a set of verdant canyons sure to garner many an Instagram like. Add the mighty volcanoes of Lago de Atitlán, the cave-filled Verapaces and the stunning swimming hole of Semuc Champey - and you have one of the most rewarding outdoor adventure locations in Central America. Oh yes you can also lounge on beaches edging both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

Supercharge any Guatemalan break with surfing, scuba diving and high-altitude trekking.

The new Mayan finds will only make Guatemala a more alluring destination, already well-loved for its warm-hearted locals and astonishing natural beauty.

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