Ancient Maya DNA uncovers shocking evidence of paired male child sacrifices at Chichen Itza

The ancient Maya city of Chichén Itzá in Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula has long been associated with human sacrifice. A common misconception is that young female victims were often flung alive into sinkholes as offerings to the gods. However, more recent research suggests that both men and women, as well as children, were among those sacrificed. Genetic analysis of 64 infant boy skeletons may shed light on the symbolic role twins played in Maya myths and rituals. In 1967, the remains of over 100 children were found in a repurposed underground cistern near the sacred sinkhole at the ceremonial center of the city. DNA testing revealed that all analyzed individuals were male, with several being closely related, including two pairs of monozygotic twins.