The build environment on Late Postclassic terraces in Tlaxcallan

Summary

During intensive survey and mapping of the Late Postclassic City of Tlaxcallan, we noted that the inhabitants of the ancient city of Tlaxcallan, in Tlaxcala, Mexico, developed a dense settlement pattern and complex urban landscape during the Late Postclassic (A.D. 1250-1521). Specifically, massive terraces and open and accessible plazas dominated this landscape. In this paper, we present the initial results of excavations on a series of terraces located at the northern edge of the city. This research indicates that these terraces exhibit a complex history of construction and use. Importantly, the results demonstrate that these terraces were covered with many structures, formal patios, possible workshops, and middens that resulted form diverse activities. Furthermore, the sizes of middens indicate intensive occupation and social reproduction of terrace inhabitants. For these reasons, we suggest that these terraces were not simply agricultural terraces or the residences of nuclear-family households.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 81st Annual Meeting, Orlando, FL (2016)

Keywords

Spatial Coverage