The complex and beautiful hieroglyphic script of the ancient Maya was until recently one of the last great undeciphered writing systems. Based on the best-selling book by Michael Coe, called by the New York Times "one of the great stories of 20th century scientific discovery", Breaking the Maya Code traces the epic quest to unlock the secrets of the script across 200 years, nine countries and three continents.

Is 2012 threatening the end of the world? Are unforeseen disasters coming? Do ancient prophecies come true? Are the earthquakes, hurricanes, financial crises, uprisings and wars of our day the heralds of the end?