During the 'Classic Period' from 300 AD to 900 AD, all the great Maya cities were built, many of which are included in this gallery.

In their era of greatest Maya prosperity, arithmetic and astronomy advanced and they were able to measure the orbits of celestial bodies such as Venus with great accuracy. At their height, Maya cities were larger and more populous than any city in Europe.

There is strong evidence of trade between the Maya and the peoples of Europe, Africa, and Polynesia - well before Columbus.

Although my photographs show ancient grey ruins, microscopic traces of paint on the stonework have enabled archaeologists to conclude that these structures were originally painted in bright colors, both inside and out.

However, changing climate, shortage of food, and overpopulation all contributed to an eventual decline, and by 830 AD construction and development halted and the cities were abandoned.