Mayan ritual ballgame

The Mayan ritual ballgame, known as "pitz," was a significant cultural and religious activity in ancient Mesoamerica. Played on a large, enclosed court, teams used their hips to hit a rubber ball through stone hoops. The game held deep spiritual meaning, often symbolizing the struggle between life and death or the forces of nature. It was associated with ritual sacrifices, where the outcome could determine the fate of players and even entire communities. The ballgame served not only as entertainment but also as a way to reinforce social hierarchies and religious practices within Mayan society.