Make your own Maya Calendar

Discover the wonders of the Maya civilisation by creating your very own Maya Calendar, an essential piece of their rich history. The ancient Maya, who inhabited regions in Guatemala, Belize, Mexico, Honduras, and El Salvador, were master astronomers, mathematicians, and writers. They built spectacular pyramids, palaces, and ballcourts, all without the use of metal tools, the wheel, or pack animals. Their profound knowledge of time and the cosmos is embodied in the intricate Maya Calendar, which served as a key part of their daily life and spiritual practices.

Key Features:

• Educational Craft Pack: This set allows students to create their own version of the Maya Calendar, featuring five separate rings to cut out and assemble on a white card.
• Pin for Assembly: A pin is included to secure the rings together, allowing the calendar to rotate just like the original.
• Teacher's Notes Included: The pack also comes with detailed instructions, providing teachers with historical context and ideas for further exploration in the classroom.

Historical Context:

• Maya Knowledge: The Maya were renowned for their advanced understanding of mathematics, astronomy, and timekeeping. Their calendar was not only used to mark the days, months, and years but also to align with celestial events like eclipses and the movements of planets.
• Cultural Significance: The calendar played an integral role in Maya society, dictating the timing of religious ceremonies, agricultural cycles, and daily activities. The Maya Long Count Calendar famously tracked long periods of time, with an astonishing precision that was unmatched by other ancient cultures.

Ideal For:

• Classroom Activities: Perfect for engaging students in learning about ancient civilisations, particularly the Maya, their achievements, and their contributions to science.
• Home Learning: A fun, hands-on project for students to create while learning about the fascinating history of the Maya.
• Cultural Exploration: A great introduction to the world of ancient Mesoamerican cultures, ideal for enriching history lessons or engaging with global heritage.

By making your own Maya Calendar, you’ll not only create a fantastic piece of historical artwork but also gain a deeper appreciation of the Maya civilisation’s extraordinary achievements.