Mayan Influencer 'El último maya' Donates Ceremonial Ball to National Museum of Anthropology

Influencer Balam, who goes by "El último maya" online, has gifted a Mayan ball to Mexico City's National Museum of Anthropology. Balam, an ambassador for Mayan culture, traveled from Tulum to the capital to make the donation.

The pre-Hispanic ceremonial object is crafted from solid rubber, weighing between 3 and 4 kilograms, and was traditionally made from the latex of the Castilla elastica tree. These balls symbolized the sun and were played using hips and elbows.

Balam stated that the ball has been in his family for 35 years and will now become part of the nation's historical artifacts. He documented the donation process on social media, expressing gratitude to the museum staff for their hospitality and for allowing him to explore the exhibits and even participate in a demonstration of the ancient ball game.

Beyond the donation, Balam, whose name means "jaguar," is known for using his online presence to share his lifestyle and promote Mayan cosmovision and traditions. His online persona often features him in traditional Mayan warrior attire, complete with a quilted mantle, leather sandals, and tattoos, aiming to spread awareness of his heritage globally.