Archaeologists Discover Stunning Maya Murals and Reliefs at Dzibanché, Mexico!
In a remarkable find, archaeologists with Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) have uncovered three stucco reliefs at the ancient Maya city of Dzibanché, located in Quintana Roo. These artworks, believed to date back to the Early Classic period (500–600 CE), depict scenes from the powerful Kaanu’l dynasty, also known as the Snake dynasty. Dzibanché, an important Maya site that dates to around 300 BCE, was initially the seat of the Kaanu’l rulers, who eventually expanded their influence across modern-day Mexico, Belize, and Guatemala.
Photo Credit: INAH
A Unique Discovery at the Ballcourt
These newly unearthed reliefs were found on two platforms west of Dzibanché’s Ball Game II court, a ceremonial space where the ancient Maya played their symbolic ballgame, blending physical prowess with spiritual devotion. Each platform, measuring approximately 10 by 5 feet, contains the first known stucco reliefs discovered at Dzibanché’s ballcourt. Experts believe these decorative facades were intended to solidify the Kaanu’l dynasty's influence and authority over the region.
Sandra Balanzario Granados, who leads the INAH’s Archaeological Site Improvement Program (Promeza) at Dzibanché, described the find as groundbreaking. “Although we had found stucco reliefs on larger buildings, we would never have thought of finding such decorated façades on a ball court with such profound meanings as these ones apparently have,” she said.
Photo Credit: INAH
Insights into Kaanu’l Dynasty Beliefs
Each of the three reliefs gives a fascinating insight into the mythological and celestial worldview of the Kaanu’l dynasty. The first relief shows two figures standing beside a pedestal meant to hold a sculpture, with symbols identifying a ruler of the Snake lineage. The second scene, filled with cosmic elements like stars and intertwined serpents, symbolises the dynasty’s claimed divine connections and celestial ancestry.
Notably, the third panel showcases a series of mythological animals associated with constellations. This imagery reinforces the Kaanu’l rulers’ connection to the cosmos and underscores their belief in a divine right to rule.
Epigrapher Alexander Tokovinine highlighted the blend of Maya and Teotihuacán influences, especially the use of serpent symbolism, which strengthened the dynasty’s claim to a godly heritage. The intertwined snakes that appear throughout the reliefs are particularly significant, as they are emblematic of the Snake dynasty itself. In ancient Maya culture, rulers were often seen as intermediaries between the gods and the people, and the Kaanu’l dynasty positioned itself as descendants of celestial beings.
Preserving a Vivid Legacy
The reliefs, crafted from a traditional Maya lime-based mortar called sascab, still bear traces of their original red, blue, yellow, and black paint. However, after centuries of exposure to the elements, much of the vibrant colouring has worn away. To safeguard these important artefacts, the archaeological team is using advanced photogrammetry techniques, creating precise digital models to ensure the reliefs are accurately preserved and available for future research.
Photo Credit: INAH
The Wider Context of Dzibanché’s Rediscovery
This discovery is part of a larger initiative funded by INAH and supported by the ongoing Mayan Train project, which aims to connect various archaeological sites across the Yucatán Peninsula. Since 2023, a team of 100 experts has been working at Dzibanché, not only uncovering artefacts but also restoring significant structures such as the Temple of the Owl, the Temple of the Cormorants, and parts of the acropolis.
These recent findings at Dzibanché provide a deeper understanding of the ancient Maya civilisation, their rulers’ cosmic beliefs, and their relationship with the people they governed. As archaeological efforts continue, we may yet discover even more insights into the fascinating world of the Maya.