The art of the Maya continues to speak to mankind hundreds of years after the artisans and their societies mysteriously vanished.

The artistic forms that remain in archaeological sites throughout Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras and El Salvador hold the keys to understanding one of the world’s oldest and most fascinating cultures. These images relay many important facets of daily life, religion, warfare, rituals and much, much more.

When visiting these archaeological sites, a peaceful walk through lush tropical forests is usually the norm before the city comes into view. First impressions of the buildings are often overwhelming. Size and shape can vary from a small platform that once held a temple to ornate masterpieces that will take your breath away.

Upon closer examination, your eyes will delight in the gallery of detailed carvings, stucco reliefs, frescoes and sculpted decorations and monuments that have been left behind by a highly intellectual and talented group of people.

Thousands of images strategically placed within these cities once sent messages to the residents, their neighbors and their gods. Now, those same images are visited by people from throughout the world.

One of the most recognized figures adorning structures in nearly every Mayan city is the feathered serpent also known in the Mayan world as Quetzelcoatl or Kukulkan. This snake like figure is one of the most important images in Mesoamerica. Quetzelcoatl holds a strong association with Venus, the creation of man, maize (corn, which was the lifeblood of the Maya) and the climate. Chac, the rain god is another prevalent figure, easily identified by his long nose. The form is often found on corner stones; sometimes several placed one on top of the other.

Many other artistic works can be seen throughout the Mayan world. Much of it glorifies dynastic power, heroic leaders and the divine ancestry. The Maya used a highly sophisticated form of writing. These glyphs can be seen on stele (a memorial stone monument that gives detailed information about a ruler and events that happened during his lifetime). They can also be located on walls and sometimes covering the surface of an entire stairway.

Other figures, such as the jaguar (a highly symbolic image that represented the sovereign of the city) and turtles, which were associated with the deities that held up the celestial vault, birds, skulls and warriors grace the buildings that spoke volumes about the life and times of the Maya.

Each archaeological site that my husband and I have visited has been inspiring. Uxmal, a large Mayan site in the northwest region of the Yucatan known as the Puuc route was one of our favorites. Uxmal is known for its elaborate mosaic friezes. This intricate decoration covers many of the buildings within the city. An elaborate wall with a tall crestaria (roof comb) known as the house of the pigeon is unique here, as well. Other well known symbols such as chac, the two-headed jaguar and the turtle can be easily located within the city.

The Mayans were master artisans. In addition to the large works, the Indians also created smaller masterpieces such as polychrome pottery, incensarios, figurines and whistles. The polychrome vessels were unique because they were often decorated with glyphs which have given archaeologist further information that has unlocked many of the mysteries of the Maya. Jewelry, tools, utensils and numerous other handmade objects have left ample evidence of the amazing artistic talents that were once swallowed up by the jungle.

Today, thanks to the work of archaeologists we are able to enjoy these wonderful pieces of art and allow our hearts and minds to be moved by the artistic persuasion of the Maya.

Karla Barnes of Burley and her husband are frequent visitors to Mexico.