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Journal of Undergraduate Research

Keywords

ancient human activities, rural Maya settlements, soil chemical, ruins

College

Life Sciences

Department

Plant and Wildlife Sciences

Abstract

For many decades, scientists have been amazed by the magnificence of the Ancient Maya culture. Mayapan is a Postclassic (900-1500 A.D.) Maya city in the Yucatán Península that covers an area of 4 square km. It was the capital of the Postclassic Maya kingdom and it represents one of most significant sites for archaeologists. The tropical environment limits preservation of many of ancient structures and artifacts. Another important Maya city was found in the corn fields and pasture lands of Chunchucmil. The archaeological surveys of the area have yet to find the outside edge of the ancient city. Chunchucmil is located on high ground east of the coastal wetlands. Soil chemical analysis represents an alternative method of investigation of ancient household activities. Human activities that have taken place for considerable period of time have soil chemical signatures that can be examined as they are preserved in the soil. Relative concentrations of extractable phosphate and trace elements indicate specific ancient activities. High phosphorus is associated with food processing, consumption, and disposal. While high levels of heavy metals are related with mineral pigments and craft materials. The research evaluated in Yucatan has been possible with the ORCA scholarship which funded field work during the summer 2004.

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