Ep 8. Passage to the Maya Underworld

In the eighth episode of the first season of Digging for the Truth, titled "Passage to the Maya Underworld," host Josh Bernstein explores the mysterious underworld of the ancient Maya civilization.

Bernstein begins his journey in Belize, where he visits the country's most famous Mayan site, the temple of Xunantunich. There, he meets with local archaeologists and scholars who explain the significance of the site and its key features, including the elaborate hieroglyphic carvings that decorate the walls of the temple.

From Belize, Bernstein travels to the ancient city of Tikal, located deep in the Guatemalan jungle. This breathtaking site is known for its towering pyramids and impressive architecture, which dates back to the height of the Maya civilization. Here, Bernstein explores one of the most famous structures at Tikal - the Temple of the Inscriptions - which holds secrets to the ancient Maya worldview.

Next, Bernstein heads to the Cayo region of Belize to explore the fascinating underworld of the Maya. This includes a visit to the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) cave, which was only discovered in 1989 but has quickly become a popular destination for tourists and scholars alike. Inside the cave, Bernstein discovers a wealth of ancient artifacts and human remains, including the famous "Crystal Maiden" - a skeleton that has been calcified by centuries of exposure to the cave's mineral-rich water.

Finally, in the heart of the Petén region of Guatemala, Bernstein visits the ancient city of Yaxha - a site that is famous for its stunning views over Lake Yaxha. Here, he explores the ruins of the city's palace and other key buildings, including the ball court where the Maya played their famous ball game.

Throughout this episode, Bernstein delves into the complex beliefs and rituals of the ancient Maya civilization. He explores their fascination with death and the underworld, as well as their complex political and religious systems. Along the way, he uncovers some of the most fascinating archaeological discoveries of recent years, shedding new light on this enigmatic and fascinating civilization.

Overall, "Passage to the Maya Underworld" offers a unique glimpse into the world of the ancient Maya - a civilization that continues to intrigue and inspire people from all corners of the globe.