Uxmal
Uxmal is a notable archaeological site located in the northwestern Yucatán Peninsula of Mexico, renowned for its unique Maya architecture and rich history. Occupied since pre-Classic times, Uxmal experienced significant development during the Late and Terminal Classic periods, approximately from 600 to 900 CE. The site is characterized by its distinctive Puuc architectural style, with intricately decorated facades that often feature representations of the rain god Chaac, as well as elaborate carvings of human and animal figures. Among its most impressive structures are the Pyramid of the Magician, which was constructed in five stages, and the expansive Nunnery Quadrangle.
Uxmal's layout is particularly interesting, as it is oriented according to astronomical observations rather than a geometric plan, highlighting the scientific knowledge of the ancient Maya. In 1996, Uxmal was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognizing its cultural significance and promoting conservation efforts. Although the city was abandoned around 1450 following the dissolution of the League of Mayapán, it remains a captivating tourist destination today, attracting visitors eager to learn about and appreciate its historical and artistic value.
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Uxmal
Related civilization: Maya.
Date: flourished between c. 500–c. 900 CE and later
Locale: Yucatán Peninsula, Mexico
Uxmal
Uxmal (ewz-MAHL) is a beautiful but relatively small Maya site found in the northwestern area of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula. To the north lie the Puuc Hills, which give their name to the city’s distinctive architectural style. This site was occupied as early as pre-Classic times, and some ruins are Middle Classic in origin. The time of flourishing and major construction came during the Late Classic and Terminal Classic phases (600–900 CE). It is thought that raids by Toltec or related armies after approximately 1000 CE led to the end of major construction at the site, though it probably remained a functioning city. Part of the political alignment known as the League of Mayapán, Uxmal was abandoned around 1450 when that alliance fell apart.
Uxmal’s main area is surrounded by a stone wall and contains magnificent edifices built mostly in the Puuc style. Building facades are decorated with elaborate representations of houses, rectangular shapes, and masks of Chac (or Chaac), the rain god. Carved loops, latticework, columns, and human and animal figures are also superimposed. Some of the major buildings include the Pyramid of the Magician (or Pyramid of the Soothsayer), built in five separate stages, and the Nunnery Quadrangle, a large compound whose four sides are multiroom buildings. The most striking and aesthetically pleasing building is the 328-foot-long (100-meter-long) Palace of the Governor, built over a staircase platform and divided into three sections. During the arid season, the Puuc-style buildings blend well with the background of distant hills and blue sky. Architects also varied the height of each structure to create a visually pleasing effect.
In 1996 the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) designated the Pre-Hispanic Town of Uxmal as a World Heritage site. This recognition serves to promote the conservation and preservation of the unique art and architecture found at the site. For example, Uxmal is different from other existing pre-Hispanic sites in that it is laid out according to astronomical observations rather than on a geometric plan, and thus requires different consideration in restoration and archaeological efforts. UNESCO notes such features to confirm that the site meets its criteria for World Heritage designation; Uxmal is seen as a one-of-a-kind treasure that serves as both an important source of knowledge about the ancient Maya culture as well as a lasting work of art that can be appreciated by people from around the world. Indeed, Uxmal is an important tourist attraction, drawing visitors with its magnificent pyramids, hieroglyphics, and other features.
Bibliography
Kelly, Joyce. An Archaeological Guide to Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Norman: Oklahoma University Press, 1993. Print.
Kowalski, Jeff Karl. The House of the Governor, a Maya Palace at Uxmal. Norman: Oklahoma University Press, 1987. Print.
"Pre-Hispanic Town of Uxmal." UNESCO. UNESCO World Heritage Centre, 2016. Web. 8 Sept. 2016.
Treister, Kenneth, and George E. Stuart. Maya Architecture: Temples in the Sky. Gainesville: UP of Florida, 2013. Print.
"Uxmal, the Sanctuary of Chaac." VisitMexico. Mexico Tourism Board, 2012. Web. 8 Sept. 2016.