Maya architecture is best characterized by the soaring pyramid temples and ornate palaces which were built in all Maya centres across Mesoamerica from El Tajin in the north to Copan in the south. The Maya civilization was formed of independent city-states and, consequently, there are regional variations in architecture but almost all buildings were constructed with a precise attention to position and layout and a general style prevails.
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Definition
Timeline
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c. 580 - c. 800Maya Yaxchilan flourishes.
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c. 682The Temple of the Inscriptions is completed at Palenque and is to be used as the tomb of Pakal the Great.
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692The Group of the Cross temples at Palenque are dedicated to various Maya gods.
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c. 700The Maya city and temple complex of Chacchoben is built.
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c. 721Construction of the tower and northern buildings of the Palace of Palenque.
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c. 727Temple I at Tikal is completed and will be used as the tomb of ruler Jasaw Chan K'awiil.
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c. 800The Pyramid of the Niches is completed at El Tajin.
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c. 800 - c. 1000First monumental building phase at Chichen Itza.
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c. 900Many of the greatest buildings at Uxmal are constructed, including the Nunnery Quadrangle.
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c. 1000 - c. 1200Second monumental building phase at Chichen itza.
