Dzibilchaltún
Dzibilchaltún is a significant archaeological site located in the northern region of Mexico's Yucatán Peninsula, with a history of continuous occupation dating back to around 800 BCE. Initially characterized by small farming villages, the site evolved into a well-planned urban center featuring public buildings. Its prominence grew notably between 600 and 900 CE, becoming one of the largest cities in the region with approximately 8,400 structures and a population nearing 25,000. The development of Dzibilchaltún may have been linked to the production of salt, which was essential for trade among various Maya sites. One of its most notable structures is the Temple of the Seven Dolls, located in the main plaza, which showcases the architectural sophistication of the era. Following a period of decline after 1000 CE, Dzibilchaltún transformed into a ceremonial center before the arrival of the Spanish Conquest in 1521, with its population significantly diminished. The site's rich history and cultural significance continue to attract interest from researchers and visitors alike.
Dzibilchaltún
Related civilization: Maya.
Date: 800 b.c.e.-700 c.e.
Locale: Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
Dzibilchaltún
Dzibilchaltún, a very large and important archaeological site in the northern part of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, has been occupied almost continuously from around 800 b.c.e. By 500 b.c.e., small farming villages with thatched-roof huts were giving way to formally arranged public buildings. Eventually a well-planned urban center arose. The site’s later growth may have been connected with the production of salt used in long-distance coastal trade with other Maya sites. The most dramatic growth spurt occurred between 600 and 900 c.e., when Dzibilchaltún developed into one of the region’s largest cities, containing about 8,400 structures within a 7.3-square-mile (18.9-square-kilometer) area, a population approaching 25,000, and an agricultural area extending around 38 square miles (99 square kilometers).
Dzibilchaltún’s most thoroughly restored building is the Temple of the Seven Dolls located in the main plaza. This structure sits astride a major east-west roadway at whose western end is a large stela aligned perfectly with the temple.
After 700 c.e.
Dzibilchaltún began to decline after 1000 c.e., and although some modest building resumed before the Spanish Conquest in 1521 (led by conquistadors such as Hernán Cortés), the site was reduced to the status of ceremonial center, with less than 10 percent of its former population.
Bibliography
Andrews, E. Wyllys IV. “Dzibilchaltún.” In Archaeology. Vol. 1 of Supplement to the Handbook of Middle American Indians. Austin: University of Texas Press, 1981.
Kelly, Joyce. An Archaeological Guide to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Norman: Oklahoma University Press, 1993.