Archaeologists have discovered a massive Maya city, dubbed Valeriana, in southern Mexico using lidar technology. The city spans an area roughly the size of Beijing and has all the hallmarks of a Classic Maya political capital. Researchers believe that Valeriana was densely populated, with over 400 structures per square kilometer, making it one of the most densely populated zones of the ancient Maya in the area.
Forecast for 6 months: Expect increased interest in lidar technology and its applications in archaeology, potentially leading to more discoveries of hidden ancient cities.
Forecast for 1 year: Archaeologists will likely begin excavating Valeriana, providing a more detailed understanding of the city’s layout, architecture, and daily life.
Forecast for 5 years: The discovery of Valeriana will likely lead to a reevaluation of the Maya civilization’s population density and urban planning, potentially challenging current theories and assumptions.
Forecast for 10 years: Valeriana will become a significant tourist destination, attracting visitors interested in ancient history and archaeology, and potentially generating revenue for local communities.
