The supreme creator god of the Maya, lord of the heavens and inventor of writing, calendars, and agriculture. Depicted as a wise, aged figure, Itzamna represents cosmic order and benevolent rulership.
Itzamna stands at the apex of the Maya pantheon as the lord of the heavens and the supreme creator deity. His name may derive from itz (dew or sap, associated with divine essence) and amna (house), making him "Lord of the Celestial House."
Father of Gods and Civilization
Itzamna is credited with inventing writing, the calendar, medicine, and agriculture. He is depicted as a wise, elderly man with a prominent Roman nose, sunken cheeks, and a single tooth.
The Celestial Caiman
In some traditions, Itzamna takes the form of a great cosmic caiman whose body forms the earth and sky. The stars move across his back, and his jaws represent the eastern and western horizons.
Itzamna and Ix Chel
Itzamna's consort is Ix Chel, the moon goddess. Together they represent the complementary forces of sky and earth, day and night, masculine and feminine.
Origin Story
Itzamna emerged in the primordial time before the current creation. He established cosmic order, separating sky from earth, setting the sun and moon on their courses, and teaching humanity the arts of civilization.
Both are wise, benevolent creator gods associated with knowledge and civilization
Primary Sources
Historical texts and references
“Itzamna was the first priest, and he invented writing and books. He gave names to all the lands.”
Worship & Cult
How Itzamna was venerated in ancient times
Sacred Temples
•Maya temple-pyramids where the creator-priest god is named in inscriptions
•Writing-houses; he is a patron of scribes
Festivals & Celebrations
New-year and calendar rites in the Maya cycle
Worship Practices
Old man, creator, and inventor of writing. Priestly more than popular. Codices and inscriptions keep him. Cult is the calendar and the incense of the court, not a single surviving pilgrim road.
