An introduction to the site of Tikal and the ancient Maya. The slide show also explains modern archaeology techniques such as laser scanning to assist in preservation of the site.

1. Tikal The Ancient City of the Maya

3. Location Tikal is located in modern day Guatemala Image source: http://www.famsi.org/maps/index.html

10. Panorama of the Grand Plaza Panorama photograph of the Great Plaza and Central Acropolis Click here to play the panorama in an internet browser

11. Imagining the Past An artist’s drawing of what Tikal may have looked like. What do you think Tikal looked like in the 1500 years ago? Image source: http://www.authenticmaya.com/images/ancient-tikal.gif

15. Maya Pyramids vs Egyptian Pyramids Built of small cut stones on a rubble core Served many functions-temple, tombs, platform for public ceremonies Often built on top of older, existing temples and pyramids Built of large blocks of cut stone Built as as a tomb for pharaohs Pharaohs would begin construction of their own pyramid at the beginning of their reign

16. Temple I Temple 1, or Temple of the Jaguar Temple I was built for the 26th ruler of Tikal, Jasaw. The building date is unknown as it is unclear if Jasaw built it for himself or if his son, Yik`in, constructed it in honor of his deceased father. Large carved piece of stone, or stelae often depicted historical events or religious stories