Ancient Maya Canoe Unearthed in Mexico's Underworld Portal

A wooden canoe surrounded by human and animal bones, including an armadillo, turkey, and eagle, has been discovered in an underwater cave near the ancient Maya city of Chichén Itzá in Mexico. Archaeologists believe the canoe was used in a ritual and intentionally placed in the cave, as armadillos were considered an "avatar" for the Maya deity God L, associated with the underworld. The canoe's design suggests it was not meant for practical use, and carbon analysis dates the wood to the 16th century.