Other buildings of Kabah

Archaeological Zone of Kabah, Puuc, Kabah, Yuc., Mexico

On the southern side of the path, opposite the Pyramid complex, is the Quadrangle. This unstructured structural grouping resembles the layout of the one observed in Uxmal. Along the trail, parts of the northern side are visible. Slightly south of the quadrangle is another group of unprotected structures. It is here that the Maya road (sacbe) from Uxmal ends. From the southern part of this complex, another road (sacbe) runs directly south through Highway 261 to the South Pyramid complex.

On the south side of the path, opposite the Pyramid complex, is the Quadrangle. This unstructured structural grouping resembles the layout of the one observed in Uxmal. Along the trail, parts of the northern side are visible. Slightly south of the quadrangle is another group of unprotected structures. This is where the Maya road (sacbe) from Uxmal ends. From the southern part of this complex, another road (sacbe) runs straight south across Highway 261 to the South Pyramid complex.

The trail continues west and intersects with the road to Uxmal-sacbe. An impressive arch is visible to the north and is believed to have been the entrance to the ceremonial city. This unadorned arch, located on a stepped platform, still impresses with its height of over 4.5 meters.

To the west of the Arch is the Early Group and the Northwest Group. The Early Group consists of several unstructured structures. The Northwest Group runs from north to south along a low mountain ridge. Here are two main structures in a partially restored state, structures 1A1 and 1A2. It was from the northern building that John Lloyd Stephens took a carved wooden lintel back to the United States, which was soon destroyed by fire after arrival.

Further south along the ridge is the Western Group. This group consists of two separate complexes, both apparently undergoing restoration. Structures 1A7 and 1A8 lie at the top of the ridge line. Slightly below is the Courtyard of structures, consisting of four buildings arranged around a small central plaza and numbered 2A2, 2A3, 2A6, and 2A7. They contain several beautifully executed stucco patterns, sculpted door jambs, and mosaic masonry. One structure contains numerous red handprints similar to those observed in San Gervasio and several other locations. The meaning of these handprints is not fully understood.

There are many other individual structures and small groups scattered throughout the site, awaiting excavation and restoration.

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More stories from Maya Cities of Mexico: Coba (Kabah)

Temple of Masks (Codz Poop or Palacio de las Mascaras)

Archaeological Zone of Kabah, Puuc, Kabah, Yuc., Mexico

The majestic temple Kodz-Poop (Temple of Masks) is located in the archaeological zone of Kabah. These are the ruins of an ancient city of the Maya civilization that existed in the 9th-10th centuries. Kodz-Poop is one of the few structures preserved on its territory.

Arch (Triumphal Arch)

Arch of Kabáh, Puuc, Yuc., Mexico

Арка построена как ворота в город, служащие городской достопримечательностью. Это отдельно стоящая конструкция, расположенная на платформе высотой 4 метра в центре проезжей части, доступная по лестнице с северной стороны или по пандусу с южной стороны.

The Great Pyramid (La Gran Pirámide)

Kabah Arch, Puuc, Yuc., Mexico

No less impressive an architectural monument is the large pyramid, which reaches a height of 24 meters. Next to it are the ruins of another imposing structure, closely adjoining the pyramid. This building may have been intended for public use; one hypothesis suggests that it could have hosted meetings of the city’s elite, who made key decisions.