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1,700-Year-Old Teotihuacan-Style Altar Unearthed in Maya City of Tikal

The discovery reveals extensive cultural exchange and influence between the Maya and Teotihuacan civilizations, reshaping views on ancient political and social dynamics.

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Overview

  • Archaeologists uncovered a Teotihuacan-style altar within a Maya residence, Group 6D-XV, in Tikal National Park, Guatemala, dating back 1,700 years.
  • The altar’s design, featuring murals of the Teotihuacan Storm God, reflects distinct artistic traditions and diverges from Maya practices of deifying rulers.
  • Construction of the site occurred in two phases, from 300 to 400 A.D. and a later expansion from 400 to 450 A.D., showing sustained Teotihuacan influence.
  • Researchers suggest wealthy leaders from Teotihuacan likely brought their cultural and ritual practices to Tikal, leaving a significant imprint on the city.
  • The findings, announced by Guatemala’s Culture and Sports Ministry, provide fresh evidence of complex interactions, including potential cultural tensions, between the two civilizations.