Lost Maya city El Jefeciño discovered in Quintana Roo
A forgotten Maya city, El Jefeciño, has been officially recognized by the Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH) in southern Quintana Roo, Mexico. The site spans at least 100 hectares and includes around 80 structures, some over 14 meters tall. Its discovery began with a report from local residents in the municipality of Othón P. Blanco during fieldwork for the Maya Train Archaeological Salvage Project. Archaeologist Manuel leads the documentation. The site adds a new chapter to ancient Maya history in the region and underscores the role of local knowledge in cultural heritage preservation.
Key facts
- El Jefeciño is a pre-Hispanic Maya settlement in southern Quintana Roo.
- The site covers at least 100 hectares with about 80 structures.
- Some structures rise more than 14 meters high.
- The discovery was prompted by local residents' report.
- Fieldwork was part of the Maya Train Archaeological Salvage Project.
- The site is officially recognized by INAH.
- Archaeologist Manuel is leading the documentation.
- The rediscovery highlights local knowledge in preserving cultural heritage.
Entities
Institutions
- Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH)
- Maya Train Archaeological Salvage Project
Locations
- Quintana Roo
- Mexico
- Othón P. Blanco