Mayan pyramids rank amongst the most impressive monuments in the modern world. Their mere existence is awe-inspiring proof of the potential of human beings, with or without technology. Before the invention of metal and electrical machinery the ancient Maya were able to accomplish incredible feats with their advancements in the sciences. It is important to note that the advances applied to the construction of pyramids in the Mayan world were very diverse. Unlike the ancient pyramids of Egypt, for example, the Mayan pyramids, except for the Pyramid of the Prophets, did not have rounded edges.

Moreover, these pyramids varied much more in functionality and purpose than did those of Egypt and even those of the Aztec Empire. This is due largely to the prominence of cultural interchange between Mayan Cities and other native Civilizations. The extent of the Mayan world encompassed five different present day political countries: Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, and El Salvador. The Maya also had influence from and on other great Civilizations like the Aztecs, Olmecs, and Even Totonaca. Two Major cultures of Maya comprised an array of subcultures each practicing nuances in religion, customs and language. Today over 40 different Mayan dialects exist, and are still spoken.

These dynamic and diverse differences in culture and society were reflected in the construction of the pyramids of each great city. From the almost oriental look of Mayan architecture and art found in Copan, Honduras to the Great Pyramid of Edzna with its water providing hydro pumps for its great acropolis. While some pyramids like temple of Crosses in Palenque boasts the knowledge and sophistication of technological advances that the Maya reached, others like the Temple of Kukulkan were literally built as a passageway for gods between the heavens and earth.

There are even those pyramids that were built for almost unreal purposes. In the deep jungles of Guatemala, in a region not too distant from the magnificence of Tikal, there lies a small village near a lake, Yaxha. Across the lake from this Mayan jungle village almost only accessible by boat, lies a small ruins site named, Topoxte. The Mayan Pyramids of Topoxte have an intriguing history behind them, which coincidentally isn’t so large, as they are miniature pyramids. These pyramids were built by the Mayan people of Topoxte, Guatemala to pay homage and reverence to the “Duendes”, or, “jungle spirits/elves” in region. These “spirits” are known about the land to bring fortune and mischief their key role, though, is to protect the jungle and all of its elements from destruction and evil spirits.

Original article from Duende Tours: Mayan Pyramids

More information:
- History of the ancient Mayan civilization      

- Active Maya Tour