Espacios sagrados, espacios profanos

Analyzes archaeological structures and artifacts found in caves and caverns of Yucatan peninsula that date from before, during and after conquest. Authors detail ways in which natural caves, considered by Mayans as imbued with primordial energies and supernatural powers, were used for rituals relating to birth, baptism, pregnancy, healing, and even political and social control. Also examines man-made alterations to natural structures and materials and processes they required.