Expedition Unknown Season 1 Episode 9 Mayan Apocalypse

In Expedition Unknown season 1 episode 9, titled "Mayan Apocalypse," host Josh Gates travels to Central America to investigate the beliefs and prophecies surrounding the ancient Mayan civilization. According to their calendar, the world was set to end on December 21, 2012, and Gates sets out to uncover the truth behind this prediction and other apocalyptic theories.

Gates begins his journey in Mexico, where he visits the ruins of the ancient city of Palenque. Here, he meets with local experts and historians to learn about the Mayan way of life and their complex understanding of time. He learns about the Long Count calendar, which spans over 5,000 years and is divided into 13 baktuns, or cycles. The end of the 13th baktun on December 21, 2012, is what many believed to be the end of the world.

Gates also visits the Temple of Inscriptions, where the sarcophagus of the Mayan ruler Pakal the Great was discovered. The intricate carvings on the sarcophagus depict Pakal descending into the underworld, which some interpret as a representation of the end of the world. Gates explores other theories surrounding the apocalypse, including the alignment of the planets and the eruption of the super-volcano under Yellowstone National Park.

Gates then travels to Guatemala to delve deeper into the Mayan prophecy. He meets with a modern-day shaman who explains the significance of the 13th baktun and the transition from one era to the next. Gates also participates in a Mayan fire ceremony, which is believed to purify the soul and protect against evil spirits during times of change.

Throughout the episode, Gates uncovers the facts and myths surrounding the Mayan apocalypse. He analyzes the astronomical events that occurred on December 21, 2012 and speaks to experts in various fields to determine the likelihood of a cataclysmic event. He also speaks with local people to understand their beliefs and attitudes towards the prophecy and the end of the world.

Overall, "Mayan Apocalypse" is an engaging and enlightening episode that explores the rich culture and history of the Mayan civilization. Gates provides a balanced perspective on the prophecy and presents the scientific evidence alongside the belief systems of the Mayan people. Whether you're a history buff, a conspiracy theorist, or just curious about the end of the world, this episode is sure to captivate and inform.