Excavations at Two New Operations at Colha

Summary

Colha, an ancient Maya site located in northern Belize, has undergone archaeological research interests since the 1970s. Previous investigations demonstrate a long occupational history at the site that spans from the Late Archaic (ca. 3400 BC) to the Early Postclassic (AD 1200). Building upon previous research, a primary goal of the 2017 season was to explore the transition between the Archaic (3400 BC) and Preclassic (1000 BC) periods while focusing on technological and social continuity. This paper reports on the general excavation strategies, results, and avenues of future research pertaining to two main excavation areas. The 4000 sector of Colha, located within the larger settlement zone of the site, focused on defining the Archaic-Preclassic transition. While excavations within the 2000 sector, situated within the main site plaza, concentrated on investigating an Early Middle Preclassic village that was partially exposed in previous seasons. Notable artifact assemblages and features include burin spalls and associated shells, an early hearth, a ceramic cache, and diagnostic lithic tools. The data from these excavations, as well as associated ongoing analyses, work towards the goal of developing a more holistic, diachronic understanding of the cultural history of the site.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Society for American Archaeology 83rd Annual Meeting, Washington, DC (2018)

Keywords

Spatial Coverage

Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 21764