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Welcome to the collection of descriptions dedicated to Mayan architecture — a unique heritage of the ancient Maya civilization that existed in the territories of present-day Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. Mayan architecture represents a complex system of constructions, including both monumental public and religious buildings, as well as residential structures located in diverse landscapes ranging from dense tropical forests to coastal plains.

The main elements of Mayan buildings are majestic pyramids with flat tops and stepped sides, temples, observatories, palaces, and ball courts for ancient ritual games. These structures are often adorned with massive stone facades featuring carefully finished steps, openings, and bas-reliefs showcasing intricate geometric shapes and designs. Mayan cities were arranged around central plazas where key administrative and religious buildings were erected.

Mayan architectural sites served not only practical and ritual purposes but also reflected the social and political structures of society, while simultaneously using local natural materials such as limestone and sandstone. In addition to grand stone constructions, Mayan architecture included underground channels and water supply systems, as well as terraces and platforms aligned with astronomical markers and the natural terrain.

This architecture is closely connected to the surrounding nature — buildings were typically oriented according to the cardinal directions and took into account the relief, climate conditions, and regional vegetation, creating a complex and closely integrated architectural landscape. In the collection of photographic materials dedicated to Mayan architecture, you can see a variety of objects ranging from preserved majestic pyramids and temples to details of decorations and layouts of ancient cities, which help to better understand the historical and cultural significance of these structures.

Mayan architecture

View of ancient Mayan pyramids and a plaza with human figures

Ancient Mayan Pyramids in Tenotitchitlan