TL;DR
Residue analysis on a Classic Maya cup from Copán detected cacao and chili, suggesting spiced ceremonial drinks in royal contexts.
What was found
- Where: Copán, Honduras (Temple precinct)
- When (discovery): July 2025
- By whom: Copán Archaeology Project
- Dating/period: 600–800 CE (Classic)
- Context: Ritual deposit near stairway
Why it matters
- Supports textual/pictorial evidence for cacao in elite rites.
- Chili traces suggest flavoring traditions were regionally diverse.
Details & methods
- Materials: Ceramic drinking vessel; soot-stained interior
- Techniques: GC-MS residue analysis; comparative modern reference set
- Limitations: Single vessel; broader sampling planned
Connections to the Tour
- Region: Mesoamerica
- Related cultures: Maya
- Customs & beverages: Cacao in courtly feasts
- See also: Tour → Mesoamerica → Customs & Beverages
Images
- Featured: Cup from Copán (Photo: Project team, 2025)
Sources & further reading
- Project field note (Copán Archaeology Project) (URL)
- Comparative cacao residue study (Journal) (URL)