Ancient Maya Poisoned by Sacred Cinnabar

Ancient Maya civilization deeply valued the red mineral cinnabar, associating it with blood, life, and the soul, using it extensively in art and rituals. Unbeknownst to them, cinnabar is largely composed of toxic mercury.

A recent study has uncovered that mercury contamination from cinnabar was more pervasive than previously understood, particularly impacting the Maya northern lowlands. Researchers found significant mercury spikes in lake sediment cores from Coba and Xcach on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.

These spikes occurred during the Classic Period (250 AD - 400 AD at Coba, and at various times at Xcach from 125 AD to 820 AD), indicating centuries of toxic levels that far surpassed modern regulations. The mercury significantly harmed aquatic ecosystems, impacting bacteria, algae, and shelled organisms, thereby entering multiple levels of the food chain.

While not directly blamed for the collapse of great Maya cities, this mercury poisoning is suggested as an additional stressor alongside climate change and warfare. The research implies that the Maya people may have been exposed to mercury through consumption of contaminated water or fish, adding a complex layer to the decline of this advanced civilization.