Kohunlich Archaeological Zone
Kohunlich
Maya Classic 200–900 CE·Maya (Rio Bec–Chenés)·🇲🇽 Quintana Roo, Mexico
About
About Kohunlich Archaeological Zone
Rio Bec–Chenés Maya city Temple of Masks with five 3 m stucco sun-god masks preserved by entombment 500–600 CE, 21 ha with ballcourt. Recorded context — Period: Maya Classic 200–900 CE; Culture: Maya (Rio Bec–Chenés); Field status: partially excavated; Materials: limestone, stucco; Condition: ruins.
Why it mattersArchaeological landmark for Maya (Rio Bec–Chenés) in Quintana Roo; type-site demonstrating temple pyramid city and regional exchange.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Function and chronology of Kohunlich Archaeological Zone within Maya Classic 200–900 CE
- 02Relationship to neighboring polities
Theories
- 01Maya (Rio Bec–Chenés) ceremonial center for temple pyramid city
- 02Regional capital controlling trade and tribute network
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c.200 BCE–1200 CE
- Period
- Maya Classic 200–900 CE
- Culture
- Maya (Rio Bec–Chenés)
- Purpose
- Temple pyramid city
- Abandoned
- c.1200 CE
- Rediscovered
- 1912 Merwin
- Excavation
- Partially excavated
c.200 BCE–1200 CE
Kohunlich Archaeological Zone construction phase
20th century
Modern excavations
On the ground
Structures & features
18.4167° N · 88.7750° W · 60 m · 2 mapped features
Gallery