Early Maya Ceremonial Architecture at Pacbitun, Belize

Abstract

The development of Middle Preclassic (900–300 BC) ceremonial architecture is receiving more attention by archaeologists conducting research in the Maya Lowlands. Although a few examples have been partially excavated, there is still a dearth of information on how and why monumental constructions were originally built. This is largely because early structures often lie below several layers of sequential architecture, making them difficult to locate. Even when Middle Preclassic architecture is identified, exposure is often too limited to fully investigate its form and function. A well-preserved and accessible Middle Preclassic platform would be a rare find and could greatly enhance our knowledge and understanding of the subject. At Pacbitun, Cayo District, Belize, such a discovery has been made beneath the artificially raised surface of the main plaza. To make the most of this opportunity, five seasons of excavation worked to expose this massive building in its entirety. In this article, we provide details concerning the structural design of the platform and its abandonment, as well as present potential architectural comparisons. We conclude by reevaluating complexity at Pacbitun.

Early Maya E Groups, the Milky Way, and creation

“…Analogies drawn from middle range or tribal groups in other times and places indicate that such sharing was facilitated by their mobility and the seasonal or situational forming of larger settlement aggregations. During such times, groups held meetings, dances, mortuary rituals, and other socially integrative activities in special places, perhaps at the residential compounds of esteemed individuals such as elders, leaders, or founders (see Kopytoff 1987; Powis and Cheetham 2007) or in open spaces lacking permanent architecture. They also built monuments, frequently burial mounds to venerate their ancestors.…”

A Proposal for the Standardized Reporting of Error and Paradata Regarding Structure from Motion (SfM) 3D Models Used in Recording and Consolidating Archaeological Architecture

“…Accurate representation of architecture allows us to identify contemporary stages of construction across multiple buildings, distinguish between regional traditions, and assess cultural logic in building patterns (Ashmore and Sabloff 2002; Hohmann-Vogrin 2006; Lominy 2006; von Schwerin 2011; Webster 1998). Photographs might also be used for this purpose (e.g., Powis et al 2019), but illustrations filter out unnecessary detail. The architectural history at Nim Li Punit is complex, with multiple overlapping construction phases (Braswell 2017).…”

Lithic and Faunal Evidence for Craft Production Among the Middle Preclassic Maya at Ceibal, Guatemala

“…There is evidence for increased sedentism and growing dependence on agricultural products during the earlier part of this period (1000–700 b.c. ; Fedick and Ford 1990; Lohse 2010; Pohl et al 1996), along with the spread of early monumental construction projects that would have necessitated a degree of organized collaboration (Doyle 2012; Inomata et al 2018, 2019, 2020; Powis et al 2019; Rice and Pugh 2021). The onset of the late Middle Preclassic period (700–350 b.c. )…”