|
The Great Pyramid at Mundo Perdido Tikal, one of the core protected areas within the Maya Biosphere Reserve. |
Covering an area of 60,000 metres2, the Lost World comprises 38 structures, one of which is the Complex for Astronomical Commemoration. This compound is the most ancient ensemble of Maya structures in a harmonious arrangement associated with the observation of the stars, including the cycles of Venus and the Sun, as well as solstices and equinoxes. The main structure 5C-54 (the Great Pyramid of the Lost World) is a four-sided structure standing 30 meters high, and displaying masks and stairways on all four sides, which never bore a temple at the summit. |
Towards the East is a long terrace supporting three temples, which were
formerly used as visual reference for the observation of stars and the marking
of time. In these three temples six tombs were placed, belonging to
children and adults, buried at the same time and members of the dynastic lineage
of Jaguar Paw, who lost their power in the year 378 A.D. due to internal strife
among heirs to the throne. Another
unique feature is related to the architectural type known as talud tablero
on building 5C-49; its construction began between 250 and 300 A.D. making it the
oldest structure in Tikal exhibiting this trait of construction.
As
time elapsed change came about, the Astronomical Commemoration Complex lost its
function and its ancestral importance, while the Lost World complex was
remodeled and its residential palaces were probably replaced by more
administrative functions.
This
spot was sacred to the Maya, starting when the site was first settled and
continuing throughout its history. The main pyramid was built over four other
pyramids, the oldest of which was constructed in 600 B.C.
The
people of Tikal preserved this piece of their early history. Most other
buildings from this time period had other structures built over of them. Being a
special building, they kept up the appearance of this building with fresh paint
and plaster.
Some
of the most delicate examples of ceramic pottery were recovered here by the
Guatemalan archaeological team of the Proyecto
Nacional Tikal
and are on display
at the National Museum in Guatemala City.
|
