Ancient DNA helped reveal the truth about how the Maya civilization collapsed

Skeletons discovered in the ruins of the ancient city of Copan in Honduras have helped scientists get closer to solving the mystery of the Maya civilization's decline.

This is reported by The Independent.

Copan, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, experienced its heyday during the Classic Maya period - approximately from the 3rd to the 10th century CE. According to previous research, for four centuries it was an important cultural and trade center connecting lower Central America with South America.

The new study, published in the journal Current Biology, states that in 426 or 427 CE, a royal dynasty was established in Copan that lasted about 400 years. Until now, archaeologists have mainly focused on excavating royal tombs, where rulers are believed to have been buried along with sacrificial animals. However, the origin of the city's inhabitants remained a mystery.

The latest genetic research has for the first time made it possible to establish the probable origin of Copan's population. The results showed that about 1200 years ago, the population sharply declined, which may indicate a profound crisis.

As part of the study, scientists analyzed the DNA of seven individuals whose remains were found in Copan, including one individual who possibly belonged to the ruling elite. Additionally, data from previous genetic studies of ancient Maya settlements throughout the Americas were included in the analysis.