Viewpoints: The Importance of the Ball Game in Maya Society

The Maya ball game tlachtli was much more than a spectator sport. Matches and their outcomes had social, political, and religious significance. Tlachtli courts were some of the most important structures in Maya cities. Their size demonstrated the power and authority of the city, while decorative carvings highlighted key aspects of Maya religion and myth. While winners became heroes, losers were typically sacrificed to the Maya gods. The two documents included here offer contrasting accounts of tlachtli. The first, written by Antonio de Herrera y Tordesillas, emphasizes the rules of the game and tells us very little about its social and cultural implications. The second, written by a Spanish priest, represents a genuine effort to preserve and relate Maya religious stories and beliefs. As you read the two documents, think about the differences between them. What does each have to tell us about tlachtli?