Liquid Gold: Cacao in the Mayan Culture
Cacao, known as "liquid gold" in Maya civilization, was not only a delight to the palate, but also a symbol of status, divinity and power. The Maya considered cacao a gift from the gods, and its consumption was reserved for the elite and priests in religious rituals.
Cocoa as currency
Cacao had a significant economic value in Maya society. Cacao seeds were used as currency, which facilitated trade between communities. There are even records of how it was used to pay for goods and services, making it as precious as gold.
Sacred ceremonies
Cacao also occupied a central place in Maya religious ceremonies. It was commonly prepared as a thick, bitter drink, mixed with spices such as chili, to be offered to the gods in rituals and sacred banquets. This drink was not only a symbol of offering, but also represented a means of spiritual connection.
Cacao in Mayan cosmogony
The Popol Vuh, the sacred book of the Maya, mentions how cacao was associated with the creation of the world and the fertility of the earth. The consumption of this drink was not only a physical act, but also a spiritual experience that linked the Maya with their deities and nature.
The Choco-Story Museum celebrates this heritage with exhibits dedicated to the historical role of cacao in Maya life, allowing visitors to experience this history through tastings and interactive displays that evoke ancient ceremonies.
Don't forget to reserve your ticketsw and immerse yourself in a sensory adventure that perfectly complements your visit to this incredible archaeological site.