If there is one thing that is fundamentally human, it is the need to leave our mark on this world. From hand prints in the Chauvet Cave to “Kilroy was Here” all of humanity has tried to leave a lasting mark for posterity. Every once in a while we get it right. Mayan Writing is an example of getting it right.
In addition to a sophisticated calendar, the Mayans left a detailed system of astrology and drew complex charts. Most impressive was their alphabet. It was a truly phonetic system but instead of based just in sounds, it was based on syllables. So instead of a small 26 letter alphabet, they had an 800+ symbol syllabary. Though they still employed story murals and had pictographs, it was this syllabary system that allowed for personal expression. I find Mayan Writing fascinating. Let me show you why.
If you find yourself as fascinated by Mayan writing as I am. Check out this documentary by NightFireFilms:
<iframe width=”560″ height=”315″ src=”//www.youtube.com/embed/3Rd6VWLbv9w?rel=0″ frameborder=”0″ allowfullscreen></iframe>
(All photographs from Coba, Mexico and are my own except the ones I am in. Dearest took those.)