What Ancient DNA Reveals Mayan City of Copan

What secrets are hidden in the bones of Copán, one of the most powerful cities of the ancient Maya world? 🏛️ For centuries, archaeologists have studied its silent ruins in the highlands of Honduras, piecing together a history of mysterious kings, grand temples, and a sudden, dramatic collapse. Now, cutting-edge ancient DNA analysis is rewriting the story of this enigmatic civilization. Join us as we journey deep into the past to uncover the genetic history of Copán. We’ll explore how a small farming village transformed into a sprawling metropolis ruled by a dynasty founded by a mysterious outsider, K’inich Yax K’uk’ Mo’. Was he really from a distant Maya capital like Tikal? Science is finally giving us answers. This documentary explores groundbreaking research that reveals: 🧬 The People of Copán: We look at the DNA of individuals from across Copán's society—from a powerful ruler buried in a royal tomb to a sacrificial victim—to understand the city's complex social fabric. 🔗 A Web of Connections: While deeply rooted in local Maya ancestry for over 9,000 years, the people of Copán were also part of a wider world. Genetic evidence shows a surprising but small connection to the highlands of Mexico, a link that would grow dramatically in later Maya cities like Chichén Itzá. 📉 The Scars of Collapse: Genetic data reveals a clear story of population boom and bust. For centuries, the Maya population grew steadily, fueled by agriculture and trade. Then, around 1,200 years ago, the genetic record shows a sharp decline, mirroring the archaeological evidence of drought, warfare, and the collapse of Classic Maya civilization. From the founding of a dynasty to its ultimate fall, the DNA of Copán's people tells a story of migration, continuity, and resilience.