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Mayan Astronomer’s Name Deciphered from Ancient Ruins

Guatemala's Minister of Culture and Sports Luis Mendez speaks during a press conference on new findings in the decipherment of hieroglyphs on Maya murals at the Xultun archaeological site, at the National Palace of Culture in Guatemala City on July 13, 2026. (AFP)
Guatemala's Minister of Culture and Sports Luis Mendez speaks during a press conference on new findings in the decipherment of hieroglyphs on Maya murals at the Xultun archaeological site, at the National Palace of Culture in Guatemala City on July 13, 2026. (AFP)
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Mayan Astronomer’s Name Deciphered from Ancient Ruins

Guatemala's Minister of Culture and Sports Luis Mendez speaks during a press conference on new findings in the decipherment of hieroglyphs on Maya murals at the Xultun archaeological site, at the National Palace of Culture in Guatemala City on July 13, 2026. (AFP)
Guatemala's Minister of Culture and Sports Luis Mendez speaks during a press conference on new findings in the decipherment of hieroglyphs on Maya murals at the Xultun archaeological site, at the National Palace of Culture in Guatemala City on July 13, 2026. (AFP)

Archaeologists have transcribed mural symbols from Mayan ruins to learn the name of an astronomer and mathematician from the ancient civilization for the first time, Guatemala's Ministry of Culture said Monday.

The name "White-chested Fox" was found in drawings dating from 400 BC to 900 AD at the San Bartolo-Xultun archaeological site on the Mexican border.

Culture minister Luis Mendez told reporters researchers at Xultun unearthed a "complete mathematical and astronomical formula" authored by Sak Tahn Waax, which translates to White-chested Fox.

Mendez said it's the only work of its kind attributed to a mathematician from the Maya Classic period, considered the peak of the Mesoamerican civilization.

The discovery was "made possible by the epigraphic analysis of more than 50 mathematical and astronomical microtexts written on the wall," the ministry said in a statement.

The glyphs appeared in "a context where art was intertwined with science, mathematics, astronomy and everyday life," Mendez said.

The Maya civilization went into decline around 900 AD, until its collapse with the arrival of Spanish conquistadors at the turn of the 16th century.

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Jazan Cultural House Launches Summer Ceramics Camp to Nurture Artistic Talent

Running for six weeks, the program includes specialized workshops - SPA
Running for six weeks, the program includes specialized workshops - SPA
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Jazan Cultural House Launches Summer Ceramics Camp to Nurture Artistic Talent

Running for six weeks, the program includes specialized workshops - SPA
Running for six weeks, the program includes specialized workshops - SPA

The Cultural House in Jazan Region is running a summer ceramics camp as part of its seasonal programs aimed at developing artistic skills and discovering talent through a training program that combines theoretical and practical instruction in a stimulating creative environment, SPA reported.

Running for six weeks, the program includes specialized workshops that guide participants from concept development to the creation of ceramic sculptures. It also features dedicated workshops for children with age-appropriate activities.

The camp aims to make productive use of the summer vacation by developing artistic capabilities, supporting talent, and enhancing cultural activity in the region.

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Royal Commission for Makkah Draws 17.5 Million Visitors to Historical Sites

Since the strategy's launch in early 2024, the sites have attracted more than 17.5 million visitors, with a satisfaction rate of 97.5% - SPA
Since the strategy's launch in early 2024, the sites have attracted more than 17.5 million visitors, with a satisfaction rate of 97.5% - SPA
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Royal Commission for Makkah Draws 17.5 Million Visitors to Historical Sites

Since the strategy's launch in early 2024, the sites have attracted more than 17.5 million visitors, with a satisfaction rate of 97.5% - SPA
Since the strategy's launch in early 2024, the sites have attracted more than 17.5 million visitors, with a satisfaction rate of 97.5% - SPA

The Royal Commission for Makkah City and Holy Sites is implementing an integrated strategy to conserve historical and enrichment sites and transform them into sustainable cultural destinations, enhancing Makkah's position as a city of ancient heritage in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

The commission has developed and rehabilitated 28 historical sites each, documented 60 sites, opened 27 sites to visitors, and established seven visitor service centers.

Since the strategy's launch in early 2024, the sites have attracted more than 17.5 million visitors, with a satisfaction rate of 97.5%, SPA reported.

The commission has also executed more than 200 promotional announcements and prepared 65 development studies to support conservation and rehabilitation plans, achieving a 100% activation rate in implementing planned operational targets.

These efforts reflect the commission's commitment to balancing the preservation of Makkah's historical identity with modern development requirements, reinforcing the city's position as a global destination combining holiness, history, and culture.

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Jazan’s Performing Arts Preserve Heritage and Showcase Regional Identity

In recent years, Jazan has witnessed increased cultural activity through festivals, creative initiatives, and support for local talent, strengthening community participation and promoting heritage preservation - SPA
In recent years, Jazan has witnessed increased cultural activity through festivals, creative initiatives, and support for local talent, strengthening community participation and promoting heritage preservation - SPA
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Jazan’s Performing Arts Preserve Heritage and Showcase Regional Identity

In recent years, Jazan has witnessed increased cultural activity through festivals, creative initiatives, and support for local talent, strengthening community participation and promoting heritage preservation - SPA
In recent years, Jazan has witnessed increased cultural activity through festivals, creative initiatives, and support for local talent, strengthening community participation and promoting heritage preservation - SPA

Jazan Region holds a distinguished place in Saudi Arabia’s cultural landscape, shaped by its rich heritage and diverse traditions, which have enriched the national cultural scene through a wide range of performing and folk arts preserved and showcased across generations.

The region’s diverse geography, including mountains, plains, coastlines, and islands, has influenced the development of unique performing arts connected to local lifestyles, agricultural seasons, and maritime activities.

These arts form a vibrant cultural heritage that has maintained its authenticity while evolving with the Kingdom’s cultural growth, SPA reported.

In recent years, Jazan has witnessed increased cultural activity through festivals, creative initiatives, and support for local talent, strengthening community participation and promoting heritage preservation.

Its folk arts remain a key expression of regional identity, reflecting its history, values, and customs while maintaining a strong presence in national events and cultural programs.