An Account of the Things of Yucatan: Written by the Bishop of Yucatan, Based on the Oral Traditions of the Ancient Mayas by Fray Diego de Landa (2000-08-02)

This is one of the most important works about the culture of the ancient Mayas, as it contains information about buildings, the environment, customs, beliefs and history. It was written between 1563 and 1572 by Diego de Landa, a Franciscan friar who arrived in Yucatan shortly after the Conquest, and obtained his information from Indians and conquistadors through direct interviews, like any anthropologist. He was a controversial figure, since in addition to compiling this account, he devoted himself to combating ancient beliefs harshly to impose Christianity, leaving this valuable work for posterity, essential for knowledge of what Yucatan was like before and after the Conquest. Translated by David Castledine. Illustrated by Jose Narro and Eraclio Ramirez.