Chichén Itzá’s Rise and Influence Rising to prominence after the Classic Maya collapse, Chichén Itzá became one of the largest and most influential cities of the ancient Maya. Despite extensive archaeological investigation, much about its political connections and ritual life remains unclear.
#### Discovery of Male Child Sacrifice A study published in *Nature* reveals that ritual child sacrifice at Chichén Itzá was exclusively male. Researchers found close kin relationships, including pairs of identical twins, suggesting a link to Maya origin myths from the Popol Vuh. Comparisons with modern Maya populations highlight the genetic impact of colonial-era epidemics.
Chichén Itzá: An Archaeological Enigma Located in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula, Chichén Itzá is renowned for its monumental architecture, including ball courts and the temple of El Castillo. Known for extensive evidence of ritual killings, the site’s role and context of sacrifice have remained poorly understood.
Genetic Investigation of Sacrificed Children An international team from institutions like the Max Planck Institutes, the National School of Anthropology and History, and Harvard University conducted a genetic study of 64 children interred within a chultún at Chichén Itzá. Dating of the remains showed use of the chultún for over 500 years, with most children interred during Chichén Itzá’s peak between 800 and 1000 AD. All tested individuals were male, with at least a quarter closely related, indicating selection of related male children for ritual activities.
Connections to the Popol Vuh Twins play a significant role in Maya mythology, particularly in the Popol Vuh, which recounts the adventures of the Hero Twins. The interment of twins at Chichén Itzá suggests rituals mirroring these myths.
Impact of Colonial-Era Epidemics The genetic data also allowed researchers to study the impact of colonial-era epidemics on Indigenous populations. Evidence shows genetic selection for immunity-related genes, particularly against Salmonella, highlighting the severe impact of the 1545 cocoliztli epidemic.
Cultural and Historical Insights This study not only dispels outdated hypotheses but also offers insights into the biological and cultural lives of the ancient Maya. It emphasizes the importance of preserving historical memory and allows Indigenous researchers to shape narratives about the past.
