Ep 1. Secrets of the Snake Altar

Lost Treasures of the Maya is a riveting historical series that explores the mysterious and ancient civilization that once thrived in Central America. Season 1, Episode 1, "Secrets of the Snake Altar," delves into the untold story of the Snake Altar, which is located within the sacred ruins of the Temple de la Cruz in Palenque, Mexico.

The episode takes the viewers on a journey through the lush jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula, where the team of experts from the world's leading institutions including archaeologists, historians, and cultural anthropologists, embarks on a mission to uncover the secrets of this enigmatic altar. They seek to unravel the strange symbols and cryptic messages engraved on the altar, which might hold the key to understanding the religious beliefs and rituals of the Maya people.

The Snake Altar is regarded as one of the most remarkable and distinctive artifacts of the Maya civilization, with its intricately carved sculptures depicting serpents writhing in symmetrical patterns. To the Maya people, these snakes represented the gods and were worshipped as symbols of fertility, creation, and rebirth. The altar is thought to be closely linked with the story of Palenque's most famous king, K'inich Janaab' Pakal, who is depicted on the altar, holding a scepter and dressed in royal attire.

Throughout the episode, viewers gain insight into the fascinating history of Palenque, one of the most significant cultural and political centers of the ancient Maya world. The city was established around 600 AD and flourished for over 500 years before it was mysteriously abandoned. The team of experts analyzes the architecture and engineering of the Temple de la Cruz, which features stone pyramids, intricate stone carvings, and vivid murals that depict the rituals and daily life of the Maya people.

Equipped with high-tech gadgets and advanced archaeological techniques, the team uncovers new evidence that sheds light on how the altar was constructed and used. They examine the pigments, glazes, and finishes used in the carving of the Altar, which can tell us about the materials and tools used by the ancient Maya artisans. They also conduct a 3D laser scan analysis of the altar, revealing previously undiscovered details of the intricate carvings.

The team also consults with local Maya experts, who provide valuable cultural context and interpretations of the artwork. They explain how the symbolism of the snakes and the various deities depicted on the altar relate to the complex religious beliefs and practices of the Maya civilization.

As the episode draws to a close, viewers are left with a newfound admiration for the ingenuity and creativity of the Maya people, who created such magnificent works of art and engineering without the use of modern technology. The Snake Altar remains an enigma, but through the work of these dedicated experts, we are slowly piecing together the story of this once-great civilization, and learning the secrets of one of its greatest treasures.