The Mayans were one of the most advanced civilizations in the pre-Columbian Americas, and their architecture is a testament to their skill and ingenuity. The Mayans built a wide variety of impressive structures, including pyramids, arenas, aqueducts, and columns.
Pyramids:
The Mayans are perhaps best known for their towering pyramids. These pyramids were built to serve as temples and tombs for the Mayan elite. The largest Mayan pyramid is the Great Pyramid of Chichen Itza, which stands over 75 meters tall.
Arenas:
The Mayans also built a number of impressive arenas. These arenas were used for a variety of purposes, including religious ceremonies, ball games, and public executions. The largest Mayan arena is the Great Ball Court at Chichen Itza, which measures over 160 meters long and 70 meters wide.
Aqueducts:
The Mayans were also skilled engineers, and they built a number of aqueducts to bring water to their cities. These aqueducts were often many kilometers long and were constructed with great precision. The most famous Mayan aqueduct is the Aqueduct of Uxmal, which is over 5 kilometers long.
Columns:
The Mayans also used columns extensively in their architecture. Columns were used to support roofs and walls, and they were often decorated with elaborate carvings. The most famous Mayan columns are the columns of the Palace at Palenque, which are covered in carvings of Mayan rulers and deities.
The Mayans were skilled builders and engineers, and their architecture is a testament to their advanced civilization. Their impressive structures continue to amaze and inspire people today.