The lost City

This region, the central part of the Mexican state of Campeche, has been little studied archaeologically: 3,000 uninhabited square kilometers covered with forests. In May-June of this year, aerial laser scanning of the northern part of this region was carried out using LiDAR technology. The results showed a large cluster of pre-Hispanic buildings.

Then archaeologists conducted field surveys. It turned out that the structures had several features in common, and that some features did not resemble structures in other parts of the Maya habitat. The closest known settlements are located within a radius of 30 to 50 kilometers.

The biggest surprise was the place located on a hill surrounded by extensive wetlands. Its monumental core covers more than 50 hectares and consists of several large buildings, including several pyramidal structures over 15 meters high. The site probably served as an important regional center during the Classical period (250-1000 AD). The most common types of pottery collected by us on the surface and in some pits belong to the Late Classical period (600-800 AD). Sample analysis will give us more reliable data. Okomtun was abandoned in the 9th century when Mayan culture declined.
– explains archaeologist Ivan Prayts, the head of this research.

He said the numerous cylindrical columns found were part of the entrances. Okomtun has three squares dominated by large buildings surrounded by several groups of courtyards. Between the two main squares is a complex of various low and long structures arranged almost concentrically. There is also a playground for playing ball.

The dam connects this southeast complex to the northwest part, where the largest building on the site is located. In the northern part there is a pyramid rising 25 meters above the natural relief. Buildings, stairs and column bases were unearthed around the central settlement. They may represent markets or spaces designed for communal rituals, but only future research will shed light on the functions of these structures.