The Mayan Ruins of Copan (or, why you should never hire me to be your tour guide…)
Copan, Honduras is best known for it’s mass of Mayan ruins. I wandered the grounds one morning with some new friends and we opted against a tour guide so that we could explore at our own pace. Throughout the day I decided to play tour guide, offering up the multitude of knowledge that can only come from looking around, reading signs, and making shit up.
Here are some facts about the Mayan ruins of Copan that you should probably know…
1. One of the leaves in Copan is poisonous, though I can’t tell you which one. I’m pretty sure it changes every day. So you should probably be safe and not touch any leaves.
2. The Mayans played a game with a giant ball. It was probably like dodge ball. The loser was sacrificed.
3. Copan is home to the Mayaness Monster. If you watch the water closely, you may be able to see him.
4. The Mayans were known for their advanced metalwork.
5. This is the Hieroglyphic stairway. It was build by the ancient Mayans in 1992.
6. The Mayans invented electricity.
7. Mayans really liked their soda.
8. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles were actually Mayans.
9. Most of the ruins were torture chambers where criminals were locked up and set on fire.
10. You might want to hire a real tour guide if you actually care about facts.
