Tikal Essay

Tikal is an ancient Mayan city established centuries ago. It's remaining historical ruins now make up a national park. Through years and years of history this ancient park shows the architectural and cultural influence of the Mayan people. Today the temples and architectural structures symbolize the art and culture of these once powerful Mayan people. Their building of various structures of temples and monuments and their recovering centuries later bring an interest in history and from little information we know we can make observations on how these people lived.

Tikal is located North of Guatemala and was a major Mayan city in 300 to 850

CE. The city was known as Mutul to the mayans. It is one of the largest of these cities in

Mesoamerica.

The cities grow and prosperity was ultimately a result of their availability of resources such as;cedar wood, brazil wood dye, copal resin, flint, and maize. This richness in natural resources led to their uprise.

The history behind Tikal after establishment spans from 370 CE to 900 CE. In

378 CE Tikal was invaded by forces from a distant city of Teotihuacan and consequently from this invasion Tikal’s culture was influenced. In the 4th century CE

Tikal was able to conquer enemies and rivals such as Uaxactún and Rio Azul. The height of Tikal’s population was 50,000. In 562 CE Caracol defeated Tikal. In the &th century CE however Tikal regained power when expanding after victories to Palenque,

Copan, and their greatest rival Calakmul. An important ruler named Jasaw Chan K'awiil defeated the Calakmul and played a major role in the rebuilding of the city. Like most

Mayan cities in the 8th century CE Tikal went on a decline and in 900 CE it was abandoned. It was rediscovered later in the 19th century CE.

The architecture and connection of structures of Tikal is complex with buildings made of limestone blocks around rubble cores and cross beams made out of wood.

The temples were used as mausoleums for early Tikal kings. the Central Acropolis located in the Great Plaza, is

Tikal's five-story palace.

The structure has galleries, benches, courtyards, and paintings of captives.

Meals were prepared for a large number of residents and administrators. The courtyards would have been used for important ceremonies such as sacrifices. Mundo

Perdido Complex which is also known as “Lost World” complex its main structure a huge pyramid. Along one of the sides of the pyramid is a row of small temples yet their purpose is unknown. However there are three platforms on the east side of this complex and one on the west. The platforms located on the east side are aligned perfectly with the sunrise equinoxes.

These are just a few examples of the complexity and design of these architectural landmarks and structures. These structures are a direct representation of

Mayan people and their culture. The problem is we may not understand or be able to depict most of what it means or what it meant to them. Studies have gathered information and experts have found little facts about these ancient civilizations, and yet could still be uncovered from these lost temples. Today Tikal is a national park and