MAYAN CITIES |
MAYAN CITIES |
Coba lies inland from the east-coast of the Yucatan, near a number of large limestone sink holes and lakes. The city consists of a series of very tall pyramids that tower above the jungle in the style of Tikal, and an extensive system of 'sacbes', or raised stone causeways connecting the various structures, and linking the site to other cities in the eastern Yucatan. The longest of these runs almost 60 miles to Yaxuna. Coba was probably inhabited by as many as 40000 people. It was settled as early as 300 A.D. and experienced it's heyday from 600 - 900 A.D. Much of the site remains unexcavated.
| View of site and Pyramid of Nohoch Mul
The Pyramid of Nohoch Mul is the largest and tallest structure at the site, and it stands at the center of an extensive system of roads that connect the different structures at this site, as well as linking the site to other cities in the Yucatan. |
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| Doorway of the Temple of the Inscriptions
Not much remains of the Temple on top of the Pyramid of the Inscriptions, except for this doorway with a stucco relief panel in the transom, which is protected by the thatched roof. The original temple probably had a thatched roof as well. |
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| View of the Pyramid of the Inscriptions
One of the smaller pyramids at the site, with the remains of a temple on top. The temple contains remnants of painted stucco reliefs, and a doorway which is divided into two openings by a central column. |
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| View of Stele depicting ruler
One of the many large, well preserved stelae to be found at the site, Stele 16 depicts a ruler in a ceremonial pose, probably at his ascension to the throne. The left side of the stele is filled with hieroglyphics describing the event and dating it within the Mayan calendar. |
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| View of Plaza in front of pyramid
This view is from the top of the Pyramid of the Inscriptions back down into the collonaded plaza in front of the structure. Here the common people would gather to watch the ceremonies taking place on top of the pyramid. |
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Andreas Kultermann,andreask@interl.net 3 Park Place, #1, Keokuk, Iowa 52632 H: (319) 524-6169 W: (319) 524-8730 |