TIME TRAVEL

The ruined cities of the ancient Maya have captured our imaginations since news of their discovery in the jungles of Central America was published in the 1840s. Extensive research has uncovered a culture with a sophisticated worldview that, during its Classic period (250-900 AD), rivaled any civilization in Europe. Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed, an original exhibition, sheds light on this mysterious and majestic ancient culture. 

At 10,000 square feet, Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed is the largest exhibition about the ancient Maya ever to be displayed in the United States. Created by the Science Museum of Minnesota, the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, and the Museum of Science, Boston, the exhibition debuted in St. Paul, Minnesota in 2013 and now makes it West Coast premiere. 

Maya: Hidden Worlds Revealed uses a combination of hundreds of authentic artifacts, immersive environments, multimedia components, and hands-on activities to explore the rise and eventual decline of these fascinating ancient cities.

The exhibition gives visitors a glimpse at a cross-section of Maya life—from divine kings who ruled powerful cities to the artisans and laborers who formed the backbone of Maya society.

Visitors will see spectacular examples of Maya artistry made by masters of their craft, along with objects from everyday life. They’ll also get a close look at the scientific work being carried out at key Maya sites across Central America to understand exactly how we know what we know of the once-hidden Maya of the ancient past.

Presented in English and Spanish.

Made possible with support from the National Endowment for the Humanities.