The discovery shows the cultural interaction between the Maya of Tikal and Teotihuacan's elite between 300 and 500 A.D., archaeologists said.

An altar from the Teotihuacan culture, at the pre-Hispanic heart of what became Mexico, has been discovered in Tikal National Park in Guatemala, the center of Mayan culture, demonstrating the interaction between the two societies.

Remains of other children were also found on three sides of the altar. Lorena Paiz, the archaeologist who led the discovery, believes that it was likely used for human sacrifice, particularly children. “The remains of three children not older than 4 years were found on three sides of the altar,” Paiz told The Associated Press .