Mayan civilization has always been shrouded in mystery, with their intricate calendar systems, enigmatic hieroglyphs, and tales of lost cities. This curated list of films delves into the mystical world of Mayan artifacts, offering viewers a blend of adventure, suspense, and the supernatural. From cursed relics to hidden treasures, these movies will transport you to a world where ancient secrets come to life, providing not just entertainment but also a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Maya.

The Serpent and the Rainbow (1988)
Description: While not exclusively about Mayan artifacts, this Wes Craven film delves into the supernatural practices of Haitian voodoo, which has roots in Mayan culture. It's a chilling exploration of the power of belief and ancient rituals.
Fact: The film was inspired by the book by Wade Davis, who studied the use of "zombie powder" in Haiti, which has connections to Mayan traditions.


The Relic (1997)
Description: Although not directly about Mayan artifacts, this film features a creature from the Amazon, hinting at the supernatural elements often associated with ancient cultures. It's a thrilling mix of horror and mystery.
Fact: The film was based on the novel by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child, who are known for their works involving ancient artifacts and supernatural phenomena.


The Mummy (1999)
Description: While primarily focused on Egyptian mythology, this film includes elements of ancient curses and artifacts, which resonate with the themes of Mayan mysticism. It's an action-packed adventure with a touch of the supernatural.
Fact: The film was a major box office success, leading to a franchise that explored various ancient cultures and their artifacts.


Apocalypto (2006)
Description: While not directly about artifacts, this Mel Gibson film captures the essence of Mayan culture, including their reverence for sacred objects. It's a visceral journey through the last days of the Mayan civilization, showcasing the power of their beliefs and the artifacts they held dear.
Fact: The film was shot entirely in the Yucatec Maya language, with subtitles for English-speaking audiences. It was also Gibson's first directorial effort since "The Passion of the Christ."


The Ruins (2008)
Description: This film follows a group of friends who stumble upon an ancient Mayan temple in the jungle, only to find themselves trapped by deadly vines protecting a dark secret. It's a chilling reminder of the respect one must have for ancient cultures and their artifacts.
Fact: The film was based on the novel by Scott Smith, who also wrote the screenplay. The vines in the movie were inspired by real-life parasitic plants.


The Lost City (2005)
Description: This film follows an explorer searching for a lost Mayan city, where he encounters both natural and supernatural obstacles. It's a tale of adventure and the allure of ancient treasures.
Fact: The film was shot in Guatemala, providing an authentic backdrop to the Mayan setting.


The Curse of the Mayan Temple (1977)
Description: This lesser-known film tells the story of an expedition to uncover a Mayan temple, where the explorers encounter a curse linked to a sacred artifact. It's a classic tale of greed versus respect for ancient cultures.
Fact: The film was part of a wave of "cursed artifact" movies in the 1970s, capitalizing on the public's fascination with ancient civilizations.


The Lost City of Gold (1987)
Description: In this adventure film, a group of explorers search for a legendary Mayan city, rumored to be filled with gold and mystical artifacts. It's a thrilling ride through the jungles of Central America, where ancient secrets are unearthed.
Fact: The film was inspired by real-life expeditions to find lost Mayan cities, although the story itself is fictional.


The Mayan Prophecy (2012)
Description: This film explores the 2012 Mayan prophecy, focusing on a group of archaeologists who discover an artifact that could unlock the secrets of the end of the world. It's a blend of science fiction and ancient mysticism.
Fact: The film was released in the same year as the supposed end of the Mayan calendar, capitalizing on the global interest in the prophecy.


The Mayan Conspiracy (2016)
Description: Based on the novel by Graham Brown, this film involves a race to uncover a Mayan artifact that could change the course of history. It's a thrilling mix of archaeology, conspiracy, and ancient prophecy.
Fact: The film was part of a series of adaptations from Graham Brown's books, known for their focus on ancient civilizations and their secrets.
