News Archaeology

Laser mapping shows the surprising complexity of the Maya civilization

Ancient Guatemalan cities were larger and more interconnected than thought

Tikal ruins

SEE-THROUGH MAYA  Ruins at the Classic Maya city of Tikal in northern Guatemala poke out of dense forests that, thanks to aerial laser mapping, have revealed the unexpected size and complexity of this ancient American civilization.

ickandgak/Pixabay

By Bruce Bower

- More than 2 years ago

A laser-shooting eye in the sky has revealed the previously unappreciated size and complexity of ancient Maya civilization, both before and during its presumed heyday, scientists say.