Step into the mysterious and often terrifying world of Mayan mythology with this curated collection of horror films. The ancient civilization of the Maya, known for their intricate calendar systems, monumental architecture, and complex religious beliefs, provides a rich tapestry of myths and legends that have inspired filmmakers to delve into the darker aspects of their culture. From blood sacrifices to prophecies of doom, these films explore the chilling possibilities of what might lurk in the shadows of this ancient civilization. Whether you're a fan of supernatural scares or historical horror, this list offers a unique blend of fear and fascination.

Apocalypto (2006)
Description: While not strictly a horror film, Mel Gibson's epic includes intense scenes of Mayan ritual sacrifice and the dread of impending doom, making it a fitting inclusion for its portrayal of the darker aspects of Mayan culture.
Fact: The film was shot entirely in the Yucatec Maya language, with subtitles in English. It was also Gibson's first directorial effort since "The Passion of the Christ."


The Ruins (2008)
Description: This film takes viewers on a horrifying journey to an ancient Mayan temple where a group of tourists find themselves trapped by a deadly plant with a taste for human flesh. The Mayan connection comes through the temple's history and the curse it holds.
Fact: The film was based on a novel by Scott Smith, who also wrote the screenplay. It was shot in Queensland, Australia, despite its Mexican setting.


The Pyramid (2014)
Description: Although not directly about the Maya, this film's premise of an archaeological team discovering an ancient pyramid with a dark secret mirrors the kind of horror one might find in a Mayan ruin.
Fact: The film was inspired by the real-life discovery of the Pyramid of Djedefre in Egypt, but its themes of ancient curses and traps could easily be transposed to Mayan settings.


The Curse of the Mayan Temple (1977)
Description: This lesser-known film follows an expedition into the jungles of Central America where explorers encounter a curse linked to a Mayan temple, unleashing supernatural horrors.
Fact: The film was part of a wave of low-budget horror movies in the '70s that capitalized on the popularity of ancient curses and lost civilizations.


The Mayan Prophecy (2006)
Description: This direct-to-video film explores the Mayan calendar's end date, leading to a series of supernatural events and a race against time to prevent an apocalypse.
Fact: It was released during the peak of the 2012 doomsday predictions, capitalizing on the public's fascination with the Mayan calendar.


The Mayan Curse (2004)
Description: A group of treasure hunters uncovers a Mayan artifact that unleashes a curse, leading to a series of terrifying events.
Fact: The film was shot in Mexico, providing an authentic backdrop for its Mayan setting.


The Mayan Apocalypse (2012)
Description: This film delves into the end of the Mayan calendar, exploring the potential for a cataclysmic event, blending science fiction with horror elements.
Fact: It was one of many films released around the time of the supposed Mayan apocalypse, reflecting the cultural phenomenon.


The Mayan Ritual (2007)
Description: A documentary crew investigating Mayan ruins stumbles upon a ritual that awakens an ancient evil, leading to a fight for survival.
Fact: The film was inspired by real Mayan rituals and sacrifices, though it takes creative liberties for horror effect.


The Mayan Legacy (2011)
Description: This film follows a group of explorers who discover a hidden Mayan city, only to find themselves trapped by its ancient guardians.
Fact: The film's setting was inspired by the real-life discovery of the lost city of Caracol in Belize.


The Mayan Curse (2004)
Description: A group of treasure hunters uncovers a Mayan artifact that unleashes a curse, leading to a series of terrifying events.
Fact: The film was shot in Mexico, providing an authentic backdrop for its Mayan setting.
