NOVA

Ancient Maya Metropolis

The ancient ancestors of today’s Maya people thrived in large sophisticated cities across Central America for centuries. Why, around 750 CE, did they begin to abandon many of their major cities? Archaeologists investigate dramatic new evidence of the catastrophic droughts and instability that pushed cities beyond their limits.

Ancient Maya Metropolis

53m 31s

The ancient ancestors of today’s Maya people thrived in large sophisticated cities across Central America for centuries. Why, around 750 CE, did they begin to abandon many of their major cities? Archaeologists investigate dramatic new evidence of the catastrophic droughts and instability that pushed cities beyond their limits.

Previews + Extras

  • Ancient Maya Metropolis Preview: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    Ancient Maya Metropolis Preview

    S48 E22 - 30s

    The ancient ancestors of today’s Maya people thrived in large sophisticated cities across Central America for centuries. Why, around 750 CE, did they begin to abandon many of their major cities? Archaeologists investigate dramatic new evidence of the catastrophic droughts and instability that pushed cities beyond their limits.

  • These Artifacts and Foods Tie Modern Maya to the Past: asset-mezzanine-16x9

    These Artifacts and Foods Tie Modern Maya to the Past

    S48 E22 - 4m 4s

    “The contemporary Maya people still practice not only Maya traditions, but Mesoamerican traditions," anthropologist Iyaxel Coteji Ren told NOVA. "It's one of the traits that distinguish Maya culture."

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