Decode Stela 3

A series of Maya hieroglyphs may look like just so many pretty pictures or symbols to you. But they actually say something, of course, as Mayanists have known for some time (see Time Line of Decipherment). In this feature, you can actually "read" a passage of glyphs carved into an ancient Maya stela, or dedicatory stone monument. You can both read the ancient Maya (transcribed using the Roman alphabet) and hear it spoken (by Mayanist Barbara MacLeod) as well as read the English translation. Accompanying notes explain each glyph in detail. You can also see the original stela and learn more about it. Along the way, you'll get a good taste of the language—and you'll see just how important dates and numbers were to the Maya. Enjoy!—Mark Van Stone

Launch interactive