Ancient Maya Burial Study Challenges Human Sacrifice Theory
By
Nisha Zahid
May 29, 2025
An ancient Maya site in Belize. Credit: Viv Lynch / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
A new study by Dr. Angelina Locker challenges long-held beliefs about Maya human sacrifices by examining remains from a rural burial site near Dos Hombres in Belize, dating to the Late Preclassic period (300 BCE–250 CE). Instead, Locker proposes a symbolic and cultural explanation linked to spiritual beliefs and ancestral connections.
Published in the Journal of Anthropological Archaeology, her findings could reshape how researchers interpret secondary burials and human sacrifices in ancient Maya society.
Rethinking interpretations of secondary burials
Skulls, jawbones, teeth, and long bones found separate from primary bodies are often linked to ritual sacrifice or offerings in ancient Mesoamerican archaeology.
These assumptions have persisted due to their prevalence in ceremonial centers and elite tombs. But Locker’s findings suggest a more nuanced understanding is needed, particularly when it comes to non-elite, rural burials.
Maya’s soul beliefs suggest symbolic practices
The Maya believed the soul was made up of four distinct parts.
More:
https://greekreporter.com/2025/05/29/ancient-maya-burial-human-sacrifice-theory/