Guardians of the Sacred Bees

In the heart of the Yucatán Peninsula, a quiet but powerful movement is taking root, grown from ancient traditions, environmental stewardship, and a profound respect for life. 

Guardians of the Sacred Bees invites viewers into the world of the stingless Melipona bee, a sacred species revered by the Maya for generations. More than just pollinators, these bees are seen as spiritual guardians, carriers of ancestral knowledge, and essential healers of both land and people.

This film follows the voices of dedicated caretakers and community members who have chosen to preserve the endangered Melipona bee through the practice of meliponiculture. Through their eyes, we witness the profound cultural and ecological significance of this species as Melipona honey is not only a medicinal treasure, but also a symbol of a harmonious relationship with nature.

But this harmony is under threat. Urbanization, deforestation, climate change, and harmful chemicals are rapidly shrinking the bees’ natural habitat, endangering their survival and the ancient practices that depend on them. 

Yet, amidst these challenges, hope persists. Communities are rekindling ceremonial traditions to reaffirm their spiritual and ecological bonds with the bees.

Guardians of the Sacred Bees is not just a documentary; it is a call to remember, to protect, and to reconnect. It is a testament to how small beings can have immense significance, and how their preservation is inextricably tied to our own. In honoring the Melipona bee, we acknowledge a way of life that prioritizes sustainability, community, and the profound wisdom of the natural world.

By Magdalena and Noel Rojo