
A Slovenian-led archaeological team has uncovered an untouched Maya city deep within the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve in southern Mexico, featuring a pyramid and other structures hidden beneath dense jungle canopy for centuries. The discovery, announced on 27 June 2026, marks one of the most significant finds in the region since explorations began in the 1930s.
The team, led by Slovenian archaeologist Dr. Marko Terlevic, identified the site during a three-month survey using LiDAR technology to penetrate the thick vegetation. Preliminary surveys indicate the city spans approximately 1.2 square kilometres and includes a stepped pyramid measuring 22 metres in height, residential complexes, and ceremonial plazas. “This is not just another Maya site,” Terlevic told reporters. “The structures show minimal signs of looting or erosion, suggesting the city was abandoned rapidly, possibly due to environmental or political upheaval around the 9th century.”
The Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has long been known for its archaeological potential. However, dense jungle and limited access have hindered systematic exploration. The discovery follows a decade of intermittent surveys by international teams, including Slovenian, Mexican, and German researchers. Dr. Elena Vasquez of Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) confirmed the site’s authenticity and noted that further excavations would begin in August 2026.
Local Maya communities in the region have expressed cautious optimism about the find. “We have always known these lands hold stories,” said Don Santiago Pop, a community elder from nearby Conhuas. “But we ask that our voices be heard in how this place is studied and protected.” The team has pledged to collaborate with local stakeholders and INAH to ensure the site’s preservation and respect for indigenous knowledge.
The discovery comes amid a surge in archaeological activity in the Yucatán Peninsula, driven by advances in remote sensing and growing international cooperation. Earlier this month, a separate team uncovered a 1,300-year-old Maya water management system near Tikal, Guatemala. However, the Calakmul find stands out for its scale and preservation.
For now, the site remains off-limits to the public as researchers map and document the structures. A formal announcement by INAH is expected in September 2026, following a joint press conference with the Slovenian Ministry of Culture. The discovery underscores the enduring mystery of the Maya civilisation and the potential for further revelations in the world’s jungles.
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