Late to Terminal Classic Changes in Architecture and Caching Patterns at Structure N10-15 in the N10[3] Palace Group at Lamanai, Belize

Summary

The Maya site of Lamanai in northern Belize exemplifies one of the longer occupation spans in the Maya Lowlands—continuously inhabited from the Preclassic (ca. 1500 B.C.) through the Spanish and British colonial periods (post A.D. 1540). The N10[3] architectural group (Ottawa), located in the Central Precinct of Lamanai, has been interpreted as a palace group of significance due to its lengthy occupation span and its location adjacent to two important ceremonial plaza groups. During the Late to Terminal Classic period (A.D. 624–962 at Lamanai), the Ottawa Group underwent a major architectural transformation, which may be an indication of changing functions and strategies on the part of Lamanai elites. During the massive remodeling some masonry structures were razed and replaced with wood buildings while others, such as Structure N10-15, continued to be remodeled in masonry. Here the architectural sequence of Structure N10-15 is examined in conjunction with the caching patterns present throughout the different architectural stages. When considered together, the architectural changes at Structure N10-15 and associated changes in cache composition and placement may signal a shift in emphasis away from exclusive elite-led activities associated with divine kingship toward those of a more inclusive and public nature.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 82nd Annual Meeting, Vancouver, BC (2017)

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Spatial Coverage

Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 17335