Ancient Marvel: Discovery of Lost Mayan City Valeriana

Archeologists have discovered an ancient Mayan city named Valeriana in Mexico's Campeche jungle. This urban settlement prompts a reevaluation of Mayan settlement density. Using Lidar technology, researchers identified 6,764 structures, shedding light on historical urbanization. Further analysis and field validation studies are planned to enhance understanding.

In a breakthrough discovery, archeologists have unearthed Valeriana, an enormous Mayan city hidden in the dense southern jungle of Campeche, Mexico. This lost city, brimming with architectural and agricultural features, challenges previously held notions regarding the density of Mayan settlements.

Discovered accidentally using Lidar technology, which employs lasers for mapping, Valeriana's presence was unveiled through data gathered from 122 square kilometers of forest in 2013. The Alianza project, led by the Nature Conservancy in Mexico, aimed to monitor forest conditions to reduce deforestation emissions.

Researchers, upon analyzing the site, recorded a settlement density of 55.3 structures per square kilometer, identifying 6,764 structures in total. This revelation is significant for understanding Mayan urbanization, and further quantitative analysis and fieldwork will continue to expand knowledge of ancient civilization patterns.

(With inputs from agencies.)