In a remarkable discovery that sheds light on the ancient Maya civilization, archaeologists have unearthed the oldest known royal tomb of the Classic Maya Centipede Dynasty in Guatemala. This significant finding at the Maya city of El Perú-Waka’ has been hailed as a milestone in understanding the political and cultural history of this ancient kingdom. The tomb, dating back to 300-350 AD, provides a unique glimpse into the early years of the Wak dynasty, a period that has long fascinated historians and archaeologists alike.
The Ancient City of El Perú-Waka’
El Perú-Waka’, an ancient Maya city located in present-day northwestern Petén, Guatemala, is one of the most significant archaeological sites in the region. Rediscovered by petroleum exploration workers in the mid-1960s, this site is the largest known in the Laguna del Tigre National Park, situated within Guatemala’s Maya Biosphere Reserve. The El Perú-Waka’ Regional Archaeological Project began scientific investigations in 2003, which have since revealed that Waka’ was a crucial political and economic center during the Classic period of the lowland Maya civilization. Through extensive excavation and research, many aspects of Maya life, including their rituals and daily activities, have been reconstructed, offering invaluable insights into this ancient community.
The Oldest Royal Tomb in Northern Guatemala’s History
According to reports, the most recent and extraordinary discovery at El Perú-Waka’ is that of a royal tomb, unearthed by Guatemalan archaeologists working with the U.S.-Guatemalan El Perú-Waka’ Archaeological Project. Ceramic analysis has dated the tomb to 300-350 AD, making it the earliest royal burial site identified in this region. The tomb is a significant find not only because of its age but also because it marks the early history of the Wak – or Centipede – dynasty.
David Freidel, a professor at Washington University and leader of the research team, emphasized the cultural importance of this discovery. He explained that the Classic Maya revered their rulers as divine beings, both in life and after death. The royal palace acropolis, where the tomb was found, became a sacred site, much like the burial grounds of ancient Saxon kings in England. This reverence for royal burial sites reflects the deep spiritual and cultural beliefs of the Maya civilization.
Unveiling the Monument of Lady Ikoom
El Perú-Waka’ has proven to be an archaeological treasure trove, revealing numerous royal tombs and sacrificial burials dating back to the fifth, sixth, and seventh centuries AD. One of the most fascinating discoveries in recent years is a stone monument with hieroglyphic text, found beneath a temple at the site. This monument, known as El Perú Stela 44, dates back approximately 1,500 years and provides critical insights into the kingdom of Wak and its relationships with other powerful Maya states.
The hieroglyphic text on the monument suggests it was commissioned by King Wa’oom Uch’ab Tzi’kin to honor his father, King Chak Took Ich’aak. Additionally, the text tells the story of a lesser-known princess, Lady Ikoom, whose descendants played a crucial role in the dynastic struggles between two of the most powerful Maya royal families. Lady Ikoom is a predecessor to the renowned Maya Snake Queen Lady K’abel, who ruled El Perú-Waka’ with her husband for over 20 years.
The Enigmatic “Burial 80” and Its Royal Status
In 2017, archaeologists announced the discovery of what they refer to as “Burial 80,” a tomb that may date back to the early years of the Wak dynasty. Although the identity of the ruler entombed remains unknown, the archaeologists speculate that it could be King Te’ Chan Ahk, a ruler who governed in the early fourth century AD. The tomb’s royal status was confirmed by the discovery of a jade mask depicting the ruler with the Maize God’s forehead hair tab, a symbol commonly associated with Maya kings.
The jade mask, along with other offerings found in the tomb, such as ceramic vessels, spondylus shells, jade ornaments, and a shell pendant carved in the shape of a crocodile, further emphasizes the royal significance of the burial site. These findings offer a deeper understanding of the rituals and beliefs surrounding death and the afterlife in the Maya civilization.
Conclusion
The discovery of the oldest royal tomb of the Classic Maya Centipede Dynasty at El Perú-Waka’ is a landmark in the study of ancient Maya history. This find not only enriches our knowledge of the Wak dynasty but also provides a clearer picture of the political and cultural landscape of the Classic Maya civilization. As archaeologists continue to explore this ancient city, we can expect more revelations that will deepen our understanding of one of history’s most enigmatic and fascinating civilizations.
