Ep 3. Secrets of the Sun God

In Lost Treasures of the Maya season 1 episode 3 - Secrets of the Sun God, we delve deep into the mysteries surrounding one of the most intriguing and enigmatic Maya gods: the Sun God. The episode takes us on a journey through the dense jungles of Guatemala as archaeologists and researchers try to unravel the secrets of the Sun God and his influence on Maya culture.

The episode begins with a brief history of the Maya civilization, who flourished in Central America from around 2000 BC to the 17th century AD. The Maya are known for their incredible advancements in science, art, architecture, and writing, and they had an incredibly complex religion that involved many gods and goddesses.

The Sun God, one of the most important gods in the Maya pantheon, was believed to be responsible for the cycle of day and night, the seasons, and the passage of time. He was often depicted as a young man with jaguar or serpent features and was sometimes shown holding a shield or a serpent staff.

To better understand the Sun God, the researchers take us to the ancient Maya city of El Perú-Waka', located in the Petén region of Guatemala. Here, they explore the ruins of a temple that was dedicated to the Sun God and discover intricate carvings and murals that depict the god in various forms.

One of the most fascinating discoveries made by the researchers is a series of encoded messages that were inscribed on the walls of the temple. These messages, which have only recently been deciphered, provide clues about the revered status of the Sun God and his role in Maya society.

As the episode progresses, we learn more about the rituals and ceremonies that were conducted in honor of the Sun God. Historians and archaeologists study ancient texts and artifacts to piece together the beliefs and practices of the Maya people.

They also explore the role that astronomy played in Maya religion, as the Maya were known for their expertise in mapping the movement of celestial bodies. Using digital imaging tools and advanced scientific equipment, the researchers are able to make groundbreaking discoveries about how the Maya understood the cosmos and how they incorporated this knowledge into their religious practices.

Overall, Lost Treasures of the Maya season 1 episode 3 - Secrets of the Sun God is a thought-provoking and engaging exploration of one of the most intriguing and important gods in Maya culture. From the ancient ruins of El Perú-Waka' to modern-day scientific research, this episode takes us on a thrilling journey through time and space, helping us to better understand the mysteries of the Maya civilization.