I have taken a rest from ruins, until tomorrow when I visit Monte Alban. Instead, I have been filling my time with learning about the Mayan Culture. On Sunday night, I went to a Mayan theatre production which told the story of the downfall of Palenque, a Mayan site I visited last week. The costumes were simply stunning and although I had no idea what was going on for most of the time, it was nice to see some live action theatre again as I have missed London theatre productions!
Then, on Tuesday I did a tour of two local Mayan villages. We were lucky enough to see a wedding happening, visit the market and then enter the church, which for me, was the best part of the day. The church was unlike any church I have ever been in. It was very dark, there were no pews and the floor was covered in pine needles. Clustered in small groups around the church were people who were unwell, healers and chickens...yes, actual chickens, pecking around on the floor.
The healers performed a ceremony to heal the unwell person, which involved running an egg over their body, saying prayers to the Mayan gods,and then snapping the chickens neck as an offering. The family would then take the dead chicken home, and the unwell person would eat the head to make themselves better. I am glad i saw this because if I had not seen it with my own two eyes, I would think this was made up. Sadly I do not have any photos of this because cameras are banned in the church but let me tell you, it was an experience not to be missed!
Following a windy overnight bus, I am now in Oaxaca (Wahaca) to visit Monte Alban, before going to Mexico City on Thursday. This part of my trip is absolutely flying by and I am excited for China on Monday. Sweet and sour chicken here I come!!!
