Description
Book SynopsisExploring Maya Ritual Caves offers a rare survey and explication of most of the known ancient Maya ritual caves in Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize. The caves were the Maya underworld, where rituals, including animal and human sacrifice, were carried out. The Maya cave cult and mythology, construction and modification of the caves, and cult art and artifacts are discussed. Chládek, an intrepid explorer, then describes important caves that he has recently visited and provides photos of their wonders.
Trade ReviewTireless explorer and citizen of the world Stanislav Chládek takes readers on a personal journey across and through the sacred landscape of the Maya. In doing so, he reaffirms the important role of caves in Maya worldview and religious practice, and offers insights into subterranean realms both familiar and new. -- Dominique Rissolo, executive director, Waitt Institute
Table of ContentsIntroduction Chronology Chapter 1. Maya and their Underworld Chapter 2. Caves and the Maya Chapter 3. Journeys into the Underworld Conclusions Glossary Bibliography Notes Index
