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April 30, 2025

In a groundbreaking discovery that challenges long-held beliefs about the extent of the Mayan civilization, archaeologists have uncovered the remnants of a vast ancient city deep within the Amazon rainforest. Utilizing advanced LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology, the team revealed a complex urban landscape hidden beneath the dense jungle canopy.

A Hidden Metropolis Unveiled

The newly discovered city, named Valeriana, is located in the Mexican state of Campeche. The site encompasses approximately 47 square miles and includes over 6,500 structures, such as temple pyramids, plazas, ball courts, and residential areas. Researchers estimate that Valeriana was a thriving political and cultural center between 750 and 850 AD, with a population ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 inhabitants .

A Hidden Metropolis Unveiled

The newly discovered city, named Valeriana, is located in the Mexican state of Campeche. The site encompasses approximately 47 square miles and includes over 6,500 structures, such as temple pyramids, plazas, ball courts, and residential areas. Researchers estimate that Valeriana was a thriving political and cultural center between 750 and 850 AD, with a population ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 inhabitants .

Rediscovering History Through Technology

The discovery was made possible by analyzing LiDAR data initially collected in 2013 for ecological purposes. PhD student Luke Auld-Thomas from Tulane University identified the city’s features, highlighting the potential of repurposing existing data for archaeological exploration . The use of LiDAR has revolutionized archaeology, allowing researchers to detect man-made structures obscured by vegetation without disturbing the environment.

Challenging Previous Assumptions

The revelation of Valeriana’s existence challenges the traditional view that the Amazon and surrounding regions were sparsely populated by small, isolated communities. Instead, it suggests that complex societies with advanced infrastructure and urban planning thrived in these areas. This discovery aligns with other recent findings in the Amazon, where LiDAR technology has uncovered extensive networks of ancient cities and earthworks .

Cultural Significance and Preservation

The uncovering of Valeriana holds immense cultural significance, offering insights into the social, political, and architectural achievements of the ancient Maya. It also underscores the importance of preserving such sites, which are vulnerable to deforestation and environmental degradation. Archaeologists and local authorities are now working together to protect the area and plan further excavations to deepen our understanding of this remarkable civilization.