Cloudy blue skies hover over the stone pyramid, with an abundance of columns in the foreground, and green grass surrounding the structure.

While Rome was falling, these powers were on the rise

From far-reaching empires to seminal religious texts and the growth of expansive trade routes, the fifth century ushered in many important events outside of Europe.

The fall of Rome may have rocked Europe, but all around the globe ideas and civilizations were flourishing, including in Mesoamerica at Chichén Itzá. The soaring Temple of Kulkulkán is an icon of Mayan architecture. 
Photograph By Ken Walsh via Bridgeman Images
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