The pyramids were useful for many reasons; which make sense, considering that if they weren't, they would've never been built. the most obvious reason is that they were used as tombs for dead rulers. These pyramids were often found with jade masks and beads, which carried a high symbolism for the afterlife, among other things. There were also commonly stingray spines and obsidian blades found in pyramids, which were seen as a sign of self-sacrifice and honor. The pyramids were also used as religious sites, where priests would make sacrifices and people would worship the gods. These activities took place in the temple atop the pyramid. In the thick jungle that the Maya lived in, it could be hard to navigate. This is another reason why the pyramids were helpful; they towered over the trees, allowing scavengers or anybody who left the area a landmarker for where they are and where the city is. The pyramids were also used generally as a community area. Some have game courts built beside them, specifically for the game Pitz. They were used to represent Maya beliefs and the Maya people as a whole, just like we have our own landmarks where we live.