TULUM, Mexico — In a remarkable discovery, archaeologists have unearthed 83 ancient stone barriers in Quintana Roo, shedding light on the sophisticated navigational aids and territorial boundaries of the Maya civilization. Dubbed by researchers as the pre-Columbian equivalent of “Google Maps,” these limestone walls, or albarradas, have emerged as a focal point in understanding the expansive and intricate lifestyle of the ancient Maya.
The recent find was made during the ongoing excavation efforts along the Maya Train route, stretching from Tulum to Chetumal. The archaeological survey, spearheaded by field chief Fabián Gutiérrez Gómez, spanned from September 2022 to mid-March 2023, revealing over 205 archaeological monuments, including two terraces, two wells, and 53 foundations.
These albarradas date back to the Classic Maya period (300-600 AD) and vary significantly in size, with some extending up to 400 meters in length. Unlike their traditionally linear counterparts, many of these structures feature an irregular L-shape or resemble a saddle, suggesting their use as geographical markers or waypoints for the ancient dwellers of the region.
“The design and placement of these albarradas near water bodies and their unique shapes have led us to hypothesize that they functioned much like a map, guiding people through the landscape,” explained Gutiérrez Gómez. This theory is further supported by the absence of typical residential archaeological materials near these structures, indicating that these were not sites of permanent settlement but rather part of a communal network, possibly used for ceremonial or social gatherings.
The discovery is part of the extensive archaeological assessments required by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) for the Maya Train project. This initiative aims to preserve and study the cultural heritage unearthed during the development of this significant infrastructure project.
As excavation continued, the team collected 218 bags of pottery shards, three batches of grinding stones known as metates, and two flint knives, among other materials. These artifacts are currently under analysis to determine their age, cultural affiliation, and material composition.
The Federal Ministry of Culture, through INAH, has committed to ongoing conservation, restoration, and preservation efforts to safeguard these invaluable pre-Columbian monuments and artifacts.
This discovery not only highlights the ancient Maya’s advanced understanding of geography and environmental management but also opens new avenues for research into their societal structures and regional interactions. As more findings come to light, they promise to enrich our understanding of this civilization’s profound connection to its land and remarkable navigational skills.
