Scientists uncover tens of thousands of ancient Mayan structures that could change our understanding

[Judi Lynn]

1. Stunning 3D laser maps reveal the sprawling Mayan 'megalopolis' where more than 61,000 ancient struc

Stunning 3D laser maps reveal the sprawling Mayan 'megalopolis' where more than 61,000 ancient structures lay hidden beneath Guatemala's forest canopy

More than 60,000 previously unknown Mayan structures have been uncovered in Peten, Guatemala
Researchers say the abundance of defensive walls, ramparts and fortresses suggests warfare was rife
The ground-breaking research used LIDAR technology to map the area, relying on laser pulses
The researchers have now published the results of what they say is the largest lidar survey to date
By CHEYENNE MACDONALD FOR DAILYMAIL.COM and PHOEBE WESTON FOR MAILONLINE

PUBLISHED: 17:55 EDT, 27 September 2018 | UPDATED: 22:20 EDT, 27 September 2018

Stunning new maps covering over 2,000 square kilometers of northern Guatemala have revealed the site of an ancient Maya mega-city hidden in the dense tropical forest.

Researchers uncovered more than 61,000 ancient structures at the site using LiDAR technology, which relies on laser pulses to map out the topography.

Evidence from the exhaustive survey supports earlier suspicions that upwards of 11 million people lived in the Maya Lowlands from the year 650 to 800 CE.

The experts also say the discovery shows the ancient people modified the wetlands for their agricultural needs, and even created networks of roadways to connect distant cities and towns.

. . .



. . .



More:
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-6216505/Stunning-3-D-laser-maps-reveal-sprawling-Mayan-megalopolis-hidden-Guatemala.html