The Mayan language (Mayaa T'aan) is currently spoken by around
800,000 people, spread mainly in the Yucatán Peninsula. Since 2003
it has been recognised as a national language.
The religious celebrations of the old Mayans were spread throughout
the year, with the New Year community feast being the most
important. Today, the current Mayans celebrate the religious
festivities of the Christian calendar.
The short stature of the Mayan natives compared with other people
of Middle America still remains today. Anthropological studies
suggest that the average stature of ancient Mayan women was below
146 cm
High-ranking ancient Mayans applied pressure to the foreheads
of the newborns, deforming the skull into a broad forehead as it
was considered a symbol of nobility.
An element always present in the humble homes of many Mayans is the
traditional Yucatan hammock. In some native homes it is the only
piece of furniture in the house
Catholic religious iconography is very much present in every aspect
of the life of current Mayans.
Two young girls pose wearing huipils, the traditional dress from
the Yucatán Peninsula introduced by the Spaniards
to 'protect morals'. Before the arrival of the
conquerors, Mayan women used to go bare-chested.
The dominant vegetation of the Yucatán Peninsula is tropical
jungle. Some old Mayan cities still remain partially covered by
this dense vegetation today.
