Vestiges of the Mayas: or, Facts Tending to Prove That Communications and Intimate Relations Must Have Existed, in Very Remote Times, Between the Inhabitants of Mayab and Those of Asia and Africa

"Vestiges of the Mayas" by Augustus Le Plongeon is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work focuses on the ancient civilizations of the Maya, particularly investigating the cultural and architectural connections between the Mayas and other ancient civilizations in Asia and Africa. Le Plongeon explores the history, geography, and archaeological findings of the Yucatan Peninsula, where the remnants of the Maya civilization can be found, aiming to shed light on their advanced societal structure and their interactions with other ancient cultures. The opening of the book sets the stage for an extensive exploration of Yucatan's geography, its lush terrain, unique geological features like senotes (natural wells), and the remnants of grand ancient structures. Le Plongeon describes the region as a verdant land dotted with ruins, expressing his admiration for the beauty and historical significance of these remnants. He discusses the materials used in construction, the customs of the inhabitants, and their agricultural practices, leading to his belief that these ancient peoples were part of a larger, interconnected world, drawing parallels between the Maya and civilizations from Asia and Africa. This initial section establishes the author's objective to prove that cultural communications existed between these distant peoples long ago, hinting at a rich, untold history waiting to be uncovered.