Researchers in Guatemala Use LIDAR 3D Scanning in Mirador Basin, Discover Ancient Network of Superhighways

LIDAR scan reveals a network of roads in the Guatemala jungle. [Credit: Archaeological Project Cuenca Mirador]

An illustration showing what El Mirador may have once looked like. [Credit: Latin American Studies]

LIDAR scan reveals a network of roads, canals, corrals, pyramids, and terraces at El Mirador. [Credit: Archaeological Project Cuenca Mirador]

Main: A pyramid covered in vegetation at El Mirador [Dennis Jarvis / flickr]. Inset: A Maya stela found at El Mirador [CC by SA 2.0]
This discovery of an ancient network of roads, and previously unknown pyramids, means that the Mirador Basin Project researchers have even more sites to investigate, and they hope that any future findings can help us understand why the civilization declined. In order to discover more information on this long-ago civilization, Dr. Hansen “urges the governments of Guatemala and Mexico – as far as ‘El Mirador’ extends – to support protecting the area and boosting sustainable tourism.” According to the Mirador Basin Project website, the basin is being considered for protection by the Congress of the Republic of Guatemala, as a wilderness area. Discuss in the LIDAR forum at 3DPB.com.
[Sources/Images: Yucatan Times / Ancient Origins]
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