In Mayan mythology, the ruler of the underworld is Xibalba. Represented as a dark and dangerous place, Xibalba is ruled by the deities known as the Lords of Xibalba. This underworld is characterized by trials and challenges that souls must face upon death. The myths surrounding Xibalba reflect the Mayans' understanding of life, death, and the duality of existence, emphasizing the cyclic nature of life, which intertwines the earthly and the supernatural.