Mayan Pyramids of Tikal

Towering pyramids reaching 70m in the Guatemalan jungle. Temple IV provides views above the canopy — the Maya used these as astronomical observatories. The pyramid of Kukulkan at Chichen Itza produces a serpent-shadow effect on equinoxes — a feat of light engineering. Mayan mathematical and astronomical knowledge was extraordinarily advanced, including the concept of zero and accurate calculation of Venus's orbital period to within 2 hours per 584-day cycle.