Preclassic Maya Ritual at Holtun, Guatemala: Analysis and Interpretation of the E-Group Architectural Compound

Summary

Recent research in the Maya lowlands has shown that "E-Group" architectural complexes were intricately tied to the development of complex society during the Middle Preclassic period (900 BC – 300 BC). First identified at the site of Uaxactun, Guatemala, E-Group complexes consist of a western radial platform and eastern range structure. For many years Maya archaeologists believed E-Groups functioned primarily as celestial observatories. However, recent data have shown E-groups were the locus of many activities, most importantly early ritual and religion. In this presentation we share the results of excavations in Group F at Holtun, or the "E-Group" ceremonial complex, from the 2015-2017 field seasons. Archaeological data suggest Group F served as a focus of ritual from the Middle Preclassic through Terminal Preclassic periods (800 BC – AD 300). In this presentation we discuss how finds from Group F, including monumental stucco masks, caches, burials, and the most extensive collection of Preclassic-period Maya graffiti, inform our knowledge of the development of complex society at Holtun, and offer insights into the basis of Preclassic Maya political power.

Cite this Record

Preclassic Maya Ritual at Holtun, Guatemala: Analysis and Interpretation of the E-Group Architectural Compound. Michael Callaghan, Brigitte Kovacevich, Rachel Gill, Karla Cardona. Presented at The 82nd Annual Meeting of the Society for American Archaeology, Washington, DC. 2018 ( tDAR id: 443228)

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Spatial Coverage

min long: -94.197; min lat: 16.004 ; max long: -86.682; max lat: 21.984 ;

Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 20714