Recent LiDAR technology applications have transformed our understanding of the ancient Maya civilization, revealing a complex network of communities beyond the well-known cities like Tikal. This new research indicates that the Maya built a vast society comprising interconnected cities, smaller villages, and agricultural zones.
Professor Canuto stated, "LiDAR shows us that the Maya created an intricate settlement network that profoundly altered their environment." The findings, particularly around the site of Valeriana, provide evidence that Maya cities were often surrounded by extensive agricultural lands and water management systems to support their populations.
Archaeologists discovered remnants of reservoirs and terraces near the city, suggesting sustainable modifications to their tropical surroundings for long-term survival. This complexity adds new dimensions to our understanding of Maya culture, which was not limited to a few central cities but represented a diverse and organized social structure.
The research team, led by Auld-Thomas, plans to visit Valeriana and surrounding sites to gather more data on the ancient inhabitants. The results from LiDAR analysis not only allow for the discovery of new cities and settlements but also provide crucial information about population density and social organization within the Maya civilization.
The ongoing research in Campeche exemplifies how modern technology, especially LiDAR, opens new avenues for archaeologists. As Professor Canuto remarked, "These results show that we still have much to learn about the Maya, and countless discoveries await us in the ancient world."