Unravelling the mysteries of the Mayans

Unravelling the mysteries of the Mayans
11 Aug 2015
Ashleigh Murszewski Ashleigh Murszewski



Beneath the tropical rainforests of Guatemala lies what remains of ‘one of the foremost archaeological sites in the world’ (Sharer & Traxer, 1946). Its modern name is Tikal, but when it was one of the most powerful kingdoms of the ancient Maya, it was known as Yax Mutul meaning “First Mutal”.

This ancient site holds within it archaeological evidence acting as the foundation of the knowledge that has been recorded on the Mayans dating back more than 1200 years. One of the most fascinating Mayan Ruins, through the analysis of ancient artefacts found in Tikal, modern day archaeologists can determine the lifestyle of the Mayan civilisation.

One of the characteristics that differentiate Tikal from other historically recognised sites is the phenomenal architecture that was built by the Mayans. These temples, some of which rising 70 meters above the ground, illustrate a division of the classes in the Mayan civilisation, establishing social hierarchy amoung its people (Sharer & Traxler, 1946). In particular, there is a high degree of variation residential architecture within Tikal. Housing shows both small poll and thatch buildings and larger complex or masonry structures such as the royal households (Becker, 1973).



It can be suggested that those who inhabited grand edifices were that of higher social status then persons who lived in smaller housing made of perishable materials (Smith & Masson, 2000). Buildings that are also thought to be the houses of elite royals tend to have a higher complexity, including a greater effort to protect the occupants’ privacy (Smith & Masson, 2000). Furthermore at the heart of Tikal the Central Acropolis stands. It can be inferred that this building houses the ruling family. This distribution of complexity in the residential architecture of Tikal is evidence for division within the classes in the ancient Maya.

More:
http://www.heritagedaily.com/2015/08/unravelling-the-mysteries-of-the-mayans/22311

Anthropology:
http://www.democraticunderground.com/12292247