Submerged Mayan settlement discovered at Lake Atitlán with exceptional preservation. Lake Atitlán has surface area of 137 square kilometers and depth exceeding 300 meters Human presence in the basin dates back to Maya pre-classic period Five architectural complexes found including closed plaza, twin circles group, and dwelling groups
A submerged Mayan settlement was found on an island in Lake Atitlán, featuring five architectural complexes including closed plazas, twin circles, and dwelling groups with a stela and altar. Test excavations recovered ceramic fragments and obsidian dating to the late pre-classic period. The settlement was abandoned when rising lake levels submerged it, and water coverage protected the structures from erosion, potentially preserving even wooden elements beneath the sediments.
Key Facts
- Lake Atitlán has surface area of 137 square kilometers and depth exceeding 300 meters
- Human presence in the basin dates back to Maya pre-classic period
- Five architectural complexes found including closed plaza, twin circles group, and dwelling groups
- A stela and altar were among the structures documented
- Test excavation recovered ceramic fragments and obsidian flake dated to late pre-classic period
- Settlement stood on an island and was abandoned after a natural event raising lake level
- Water coverage protected structures from surface erosion resulting in exceptional preservation
- Even wooden elements may still be preserved beneath sediments
Related site: Grób Płk. Francesco Nullo — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: Latest #Archaeology Discoveries: April 2026 by Inside Archaeology