Archaeologists discover an ancient artifact they're comparing to Game of Thrones

Mayan ruins.
(Image credit: iStock)

It's not quite evidence of White Walkers or dragons, but a recent discovery has archaeologists thinking Game of Thrones nonetheless.

A 1,500-year-old limestone altar, discovered this week at a temple in Guatemala, sheds light on the battle between rival dynasties over the area, Phys.org reports. Tomas Barrientos, who led the excavation, told Phys.org that the stone is basically the "historical Mayan version of Game of Thrones" because of what it depicts: King Chak Took Ich'aak, who brought neighboring cities under the control of the Serpent Kingdom with his complex political machinations, and additionally fended off the rival Tikals by allying with small cities. There was even a key wedding involved in this consolidation of power, just like the infamous Red Wedding.

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Brendan Morrow

Brendan worked as a culture writer at The Week from 2018 to 2023, covering the entertainment industry, including film reviews, television recaps, awards season, the box office, major movie franchises and Hollywood gossip. He has written about film and television for outlets including Bloody Disgusting, Showbiz Cheat Sheet, Heavy and The Celebrity Cafe.