Rain Born of the Mountains: Hydrology, Vistas, and Political Control

Summary

This is an abstract from the "Mountains, Rain, and Techniques of Governance in Mesoamerica" session, at the 89th annual meeting of the Society for American Archaeology.

Mesoamerican archaeological sites often take advantage of the surrounding natural landscape to enhance both the political machinations of the ruling elite and the sacred ideals of the community at large. In Guatemala, Belize, Mexico, and other highland or steep regions, archaeologists have repeatedly demonstrated the dynamic relationship between the natural environment, specifically mountainous or sloped topography, and associated rain/run-off, and architecture. The predominantly Classic Period (250–900 CE) site of Copan in western Honduras is likewise exemplary, embracing this hilltop and rain-dependent ethos at several satellite settlements within the Copan Valley. An additional theme explored is the intertwined aspects of utility and viewshed in the placement of these architectural groups. The higher elevations of many settlements are conveniently close to available rainwater and are highlighted by panoramic views of the land below. These are also physical features of political control in the form of distribution, access, and visual monitoring, while simultaneously bolstering the spiritual and symbolic power of the buildings, their inhabitants, and local authority.

This Resource is Part of the Following Collections

• Mountains, Rain, and Techniques of Governance in Mesoamerica   •
• Society for American Archaeology 89th Annual Meeting, New Orleans, LA (2024)

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Spatial Coverage

Record Identifiers

Abstract Id(s): 40409.0