Smithsonian: UC researchers uncover ancient Maya water filtration
UC archaeologists discover sophisticated filtration system at Tikal
Smithsonian Magazine highlighted the discovery by University of Cincinnati archaeologists of an advanced filtration system in the ancient Maya city of Tikal.
UC anthropology professor Kenneth Barnett Tankersley led a multidisciplinary archaeology team that included biologists and geographers in what is now northern Guatemala.
Kenneth Tankersley. Photo/Provided
They found that the ancient Maya imported natural minerals, including quartz and zeolite, for a water filtration system in the Corriental reservoir, believed to be an important source of drinking water for residents of the prehistoric city.
UC’s discovery was published in the journal Scientific Reports.
“What’s interesting is this system would still be effective today and the Maya discovered it more than 2,000 years ago," Tankersley said.
Science Magazine also joined the international media that took interest in UC's findings.
Tikal was a bustling city for about 1,000 years, reaching its peak of population density around the seventh century, according to Science.
“It was one of the preeminent Maya cities,” UC geography professor Nicholas Dunning told Science.
Featured image at top: The ancient Maya city of Tikal in Guatemala. Photo/Jimmy Baum/Wikimedia Commons
UC's ancient Maya insights in the news
A temple rises above the rainforest in the ancient Maya city of Tikal. Photo/David Lentz
Yahoo! News: Ancient Maya built sophisticated water filters that 'would still work today'
Daily Mail: Ancient Maya water purification system 'would still work today,' study shows
Science Daily: Ancient Maya built sophisticated water filters
The Independent: Ancient Mayan societies built sophisticated water filters using materials used in modern purification systems
Daily Express: Archaeology news: Maya built water filtration systems that would be effective today
Sci-News: Ancient Maya used zeolite and quartz to filter drinking water
The Science Times: New archaeological dig finds advanced water filters from Maya civilization
Related Stories
UC offers experiential learning abroad in Central America
April 19, 2024
In the tropical paradise of Costa Rica, fourth year journalism and international affairs student Stephanie Rivera embarked on an unforgettable journey of self-discovery and cultural immersion. Leaving behind the familiar sights and sounds of Cincinnati, Rivera set out to study abroad for a transformative semester in this Central American country, rich with vibrant biodiversity and cultural heritage. The College of Arts & Sciences (A&S) at UC places great emphasis on encouraging study abroad and experiential learning opportunities for its students. Recognizing the transformative power of global experiences, the college supports a variety of study-abroad programs that enable students to enhance their academic pursuits while gaining valuable cultural and personal experiences.
Media coverage and word of mouth extends DAAP art exhibit to...
April 19, 2024
Due to popular draw, the art exhibit "Rediscovering Catharina van Hemessen’s Scourging of Christ: Women Artists, Patrons, and Rulers in Renaissance Europe" has been extended at the DAAP Library through April 30.
Alabama.com: How a new self-test for HPV could be a game changer
April 19, 2024
The University of Cincinnati's Leeya Pinder was featured in an Alabama.com/Reckon article about how self-testing for HPV could make preventative care more accessible to those facing the most barriers.