Books on Mayan Culture

If you are traveling to the Maya world, be it the Yucatan, Guatemala or Belize, it’s worth reading a little to understand the culture.

In these areas, the ancient Maya left traces of their civilization, still discovered today. At the same time, Maya communities still inhabit large swathes of this territory, which means there is a living culture just waiting to be discovered.

One of the best books to read about the modern Maya is I, Rigoberta Menchu, by Nobel Peace Prize winner Rigoberta Menchu. As a female indigenous activist, Menchu gives incredible insight into the ongoing struggles experienced by her people.

If you prefer fiction, check out Miguel Ángel Asturias. Perhaps Guatemala’s most famous writer, Asturias is best known for works such as Men of Maize. Inspired by the sacred Maya text Popol Vuh, Men of Maize is considered Asturias’ masterpiece.

For a general overview of the ancient civilization, read The Ancient Maya by Sharer and Traxler, or Chronicle of the Maya Kings and Queens by Martin and Grube. Those interested in the artistic exploits of the Maya should pick up Reading Maya Art by Stone and Zender, which helps decode the imagery you will see at ancient temples.