Mayan Beehives Unearthed: Secrets of Ancient Beekeeping Revealed

Archaeologists from the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) have discovered three ancient beehive covers on Section 6 of the Maya Train route, which stretches from Tulum to Chetumal. These covers, known as jobón or panuchos, indicate the presence of a prehistoric meliponario – a place where bees were encouraged to build their hives.

The covers are round and made from limestone, measuring 20 by 25 centimeters. They are believed to date back to the Postclassic period (950-1539 A.D.). One of the covers is in good condition, while the other two show significant signs of erosion.

The researchers suggest that these beehives housed the Melipona beecheii species, known in Maya as xunán kab. This discovery provides evidence that beekeeping was an integral part of daily life in the Yucatan Peninsula.

Historical records, such as the Madrid Codex or Tro-Cortesian, describe how the ancient Mayans used honey as a food source, a bartering item, and in ceremonies.

This discovery is particularly significant as it suggests that beekeeping activities were not just confined to the north of Quintana Roo. The beehive covers were found in the southern region of Los Lagos, in the municipalities of Bacalar and Felipe Carrillo Puerto, opening up new avenues for research.

In addition to the beehive covers, the archaeologists also discovered ceramics, lithics, and flint. Notable finds include a bowl with red and orange decorations, a 40-centimeter long limestone grinding stone, a 50-centimeter long grinding slab, an axe, a hammerstone, and a star-shaped shell bead.