Maya superstates: how a few powerful kingdoms vied for control of the Maya Lowlands during the Classic period (A.D. 300-900)

Article Abstract:

Inscriptions provide evidence of hierarchical relations among Maya states, suggesting that wars were fought for political as well as religious reasons. About 40 different kingdoms existed in the Lowlands during the Classic period (A.D. 300-900), most of them grouped under a few more powerful states. For example, certain glyphs indicate a lord-vassal relationship between rulers. The evidence points to a long struggle for dominance between the rival states of Tikal and Calakmul.

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A mighty Maya nation

Article Abstract:

Caracol, in modern-day Belize and once part of the Mayan empire, achieved widespread prosperity in the late seventh century by encouraging the development of its middle class. Over a decade of excavation since 1983 shows the city supported 2,500 people per square mile during its most prosperous period, which lasted from 550-650 A.D. Widespread building, tomb design, cosmetic inlays and other artifacts demonstrate a degree of shared wealth rare among the Maya.

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Deconstructing a Maya Pyramid

Article Abstract:

Discussion on excavation work and new discoveries from ruins of Tazumal's pyramid of Maya period in El Salvador is presented. In this backdrop, restoration carried by Stanley Boggs and decision of government to remove concrete wrapping from the pyramid to facilitate excavations are also highlighted.

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