Ancient Altar Unearthed in Guatemala Hints at Child Sacrifices

An ancient altar, potentially used for sacrifices, including those of children, has been discovered in the Guatemalan jungle. The Ministry of Culture and Sports of Guatemala announced the discovery. The altar is attributed to the Teotihuacan culture, a pre-Hispanic civilization centered in what is now Mexico.

The complex was found within Tikal National Park in Guatemala, a Maya cultural hub. This discovery highlights the interaction between the Teotihuacan and Maya societies. Teotihuacan, located north of present-day Mexico City, is renowned for its Temples of the Sun and Moon.

Lorena Paiz, the lead archaeologist, stated the Teotihuacan altar was likely used for sacrificial rituals. According to the Associated Press, Paiz said that remains of three children, no older than 4 years, were found on three sides of the altar. She described the residential structure, noting that Teotihuacan residential complexes were houses with rooms and altars in the center; the residence found is presented in this way, with an altar with the figure representing the Goddess of the Storm.

The discovery required nearly two years of study and research. Edwin Román, director of the South Tikal Archaeological Project, emphasized the finding's significance. It demonstrates the socio-political and cultural interaction between the Maya of Tikal and the Teotihuacan elite between 300 and 500 AD.