Synopsis

For over a thousand years, the Mayan civilization thrived in the rainforests of Central America. Discovered and ultimately dismantled by the Spanish conquistadors, it faded from prominence until explorers rediscovered it in the 19th century. Now, archaeologist Eric Thompson, whose passion for the Maya spans forty-five years, guides NOVA on a journey through their world, revisiting the magnificent ruined cities he has explored for half a century.