Plaza of the Seven Temples: A Glimpse into Tikal's Late Classic Period

The Plaza of the Seven Temples, or Plaza de los Siete Templos, is located in the Mayan city of Tikal, south of Temple III and west of the South Acropolis. It derives its name from the seven temples constructed during the Late Classic Period (600–900 AD). The plaza features a central patio, a north patio with what is believed to be a triple ballcourt, an east patio behind the seven temples, and a south patio south of the southern palace. The palace complex consists of three buildings (Structures 5D-90, 5D-91, and 5D-92). Structure 5D-90, on the west, was built between 600-900 AD and modified later, featuring five doors in both its north and south facades and terraces on north and south sides. Structure 5D-91, the largest of the complex, was likely built first. Structure 5D-92, the easternmost, has three doors on its southern side. Archaeological excavations have revealed Middle Preclassic ceramic fragments dating back to around 650 BC, indicating early human activity in the plaza. The earliest construction dates to between 650 and 550 BC. The plaza also contains several burials. Burial 1 was found in the central area, aligned with the Lost World Plaza. Burials 2 and 3 were interred in the south patio. Today, the Plaza of the Seven Temples offers visitors a glimpse into the architectural and cultural practices of the Late Classic Maya civilization.