First, let's clear up the terminology. Maya refers to the people, Mayan refers to something about their culture. For example, the Mayas created a Mayan calendar.
Next, let's remember that the Mayas live on today. The Mayan empire collapsed centuries ago, but the culture did not. It is a living thing, evolving over the centuries into the modern way of life for the Mayas in Central America.
The ancient Mayas believed in many gods who ruled their environment. There was a supreme deity, Hunab Ku[ or Itzamná, who ruled the universe. Under him, there was a spectrum of gods, some universal, others ruling over a particular location or city state.
The power and position of the local gods rose and fell with the power of their city states. Local rulers were considered as descendents of the gods, and their fortunes depended on the gods, many of whom required human sacrifices.
The Mayan hierarchy of the universe was a four level one, above and below the earth, divided by the four directions. Accordingly, Maya social hierarchy was mult-level, with the ruling class on top and the lowly farmer at the bottom.
The Maya built their settlements near water holes in the limestone surface. These cenotes are deep, providing water today as then. Farmers grew maize, corn, along with beans, squash, chile peppers, cacao and cotton. Long before the Spaniards arrived, they built architecturally impressive buildings.
The real treasure is what the Mayas bequeathed to civilization. Religion, science and daily life intermingled.
To appreciate when much of this happened, check the Timeline listing some achievements in Mexico and the Yucatan and the rest of the world.
No doubt the Survivor contestants will get a briefing on the Mayan civilization before the filming began. Some might even have done some independent research. But how will they cope with the actual location?
When they are delivered to the site, and face heat, humidity, lightning, thunder, rain, animals, getting and preparing food, how will they stack up against the ancient Mayas?
Having to do without the things most of us take for granted for the duration of the show, how will they manage?
When you consider that the ancient Mayas accomplised all they did over time with a relatively small population, about 30 people per square mile, their deeds are truly a wondrous achievement. With energy depleted by climate and food, or the lack thereof, the Survivors will have to focus on their game strategies.
After all, the prize for the Sole Survivor is one million dollars.
If you follow in the footsteps of the Mayas, you'll need a place to stay. Check out the selection of hotels in various parts of the the city, be clicking on Hotels in the Travel Reservations box, and when the city box appears, type in your destination and your travel dates. Kayak.com will search and post a selection in all price ranges. As you see, you can also make your flight reservations here, too!
If you have questions or comments about Guatemala or the Survivor series, post them on the South America for Visitors Forum. If you're not already a registered user, you'll need to register, but it is easy and free.
Buen viaje!
