Maya Inscription at Xultun Site Identifies Mathematician-Astronomer

Archaeologists have identified the signature of an eighth-century Maya mathematician and astronomer on a wall at the Xultun site in Guatemala. The inscription contains a mathematical formula and is the first known instance in which such an individual has been named.

The find was made at the Maya site in Guatemala.

The formula and accompanying signature were inscribed on a wall. Archaeologists report that the signature belongs to a mathematician and astronomer active during the eighth century.

The identification provides the first named reference to a Maya mathematician-astronomer in the archaeological record. Researchers say the inscription offers new insight into the roles of specialists in Maya society. " The same statement noted that the signature has been identified for the first time at the Xultun site.