Ancient Maya City Valeriana Uncovered in Mexican Jungle

Researchers used Lidar technology to reveal over 6,700 structures, shedding light on Maya urbanization in the Campeche region.

Tulane University researchers identified the hidden city using Lidar data originally collected for environmental purposes.
The city, named Valeriana, features pyramids, plazas, and a ball court, suggesting it was a political capital during the Maya Classic period.
Valeriana is located in the southeastern Mexican state of Campeche and spans approximately 17 square kilometers.
Findings challenge previous assumptions about the density and urbanization of the Maya lowlands, highlighting the potential for more undiscovered sites.
Collaborations with local archaeologists and cultural institutes are underway to ensure the conservation and further study of the site.