"Maya Royal Remains Unearthed in Fiery Regime Change Ritual"
Archaeologists in Guatemala discovered burned remains of at least four adults, likely members of Maya royalty, in a temple-pyramid, shedding light on a new leader's rise. The scorched bones and thousands of burned artifacts suggested deliberate desecration to mark a dramatic political change, possibly linked to the ascension of a leader named Papmalil. The discovery provides rare insight into Maya culture and political transitions, highlighting the persistence and continuity of Maya society despite changes in political systems.