The
Mayan civilization is credited with the building of truly awe-inspiring
temples, pyramids and cities. They are known to have developed and
thrived within a complex social and political order. Many of the
remnants reveal that the Mayan excelled in many different fields, and
the modern world is still unearthing testaments of their achievements.
Today their descendants account for more than 50% of the population of
Guatemala. Their culture is still vibrant and thriving. Traditionally
dressed women and children in the entire country are a great show of
their association with pride.
Features of the civilization
The
civilization is synonymous with the art of weaving. The art has
survived uninterrupted for centuries and is now gaining recognition all
over the world. The Mayans are also known for unique baskets, pottery
and wood carvings of animals, figurines and toys. The Chichicastenango
traditional handicrafts market every Thursday and Sunday is a typical
Mayan market and a celebration of the civilization. The Hemispheric
Indigenous Education Conference brought together various aspects of
indigenous communities of America for further study and facilitated
dedicated exchange of experiences, and educational material relevant to
the development of intercultural education.
Exclusive Developments
This
civilization is noted for the only fully developed written language of
the Americas and art and architecture. The civilization is also
credited with sophisticated mathematical and astronomical systems. At
its peak, this civilization was the most densely populated and
culturally dynamic societies in the whole world! It shared a high
degree of interaction with the other Mesoamerican cultures and this led
to a cultural diffusion. Their influence reached as far as central
Mexico, a good 625 miles away from the main region. There are a number
of outside influences also found within the culture, which resulted
from trade and cultural exchange.
