INAH Rescues Ancient Patollis in the Works of the Mayan Train
- The patollis found showed physical-chemical deterioration, with damage such as fractures and detachment of material.
- INAH Rescues Ancient Patollis in the Works of the Mayan Train
In the archaeological work carried out by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) in Section 7 of the Mayan Train, nine patollis have been recovered, an ancient Mesoamerican game consisting of lines engraved on the ground like a board.
This discovery occurred during excavations in the section that covers between Quintana Roo and Campeche, specifically near the town of Xpujil, Campeche, in a structure identified as T7-44279.
The discovery is estimated to be more than 1,000 years old.
The coordinator of the Conservation Area of the Archaeological Rescue Project of the Mayan Train, Félix Camacho Zamora, explained that these patollis were found on a stucco surface that measured 11.3 meters long by 2.8 meters wide, in a poor state of conservation.
Given its deterioration, urgent preservation measures were implemented to protect these Mesoamerican relics and ensure their long-term conservation.
The meaning of patollis in Mesoamerican culture
The patolli, whose name comes from Nahuatl and means “beans”, was a game that used these beans as dice.
According to various historical sources, this game was related to deities and religious rites, as well as calendar events.
Fernando Alemán Toscano, head of the Restoration Laboratory of Section 3 of the Mayan Train in Mérida, explained that these games were used in ceremonies and offerings.
The patollis found showed physical-chemical deterioration, with damage such as fractures and detachment of material.
To preserve these pieces, techniques such as the injection of lime water were used to restore the cohesion of the stucco, in addition to applying fillers and protective edges.
The entire process began on August 23, 2023 and has included a detailed record of their location and state of conservation.
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INAH Rescues Ancient Patollis in the Works of the Mayan Train
Process of restoration and preservation of the patollis
Before their extraction, an exhaustive graphic and photographic record of the patollis was carried out to document their condition.
Restorer Camacho Zamora explained that different styles of patollis were found: two circular, four square and others with diffuse lines that have not yet been fully identified.
Currently, the patollis are in the Restoration Laboratory of Chetumal, where they are being stabilized and their final destination will be decided.
Alfredo Saucedo Zavala, archaeologist in charge of the excavation, reported that the ceremonial complex in which the patollis were found had two construction phases, and that these pieces were probably made during the Late Classic period (600-900 AD).
However, definitive confirmation will be obtained after the corresponding ceramic analysis.
INAH Rescues Ancient Patollis in the Works of the Mayan Train
Context and relevance of the discovery
The field chief of Front 3, Section 7, Aldo Germán Dena Castro, mentioned that the patollis were discovered on June 15, 2023, and highlighted that their presence in civic spaces suggests that these games were used by high-ranking figures for recreational or ceremonial purposes, beyond the political speeches of the time.
This discovery contributes to enriching knowledge about the cultural practices of ancient Mesoamerican civilizations and their legacy.
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Photo: INAH. Restored and adapted by trenmayaa.com
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