Plaza of the Seven Temples: A Glimpse into Tikal's Past

The Plaza of the Seven Temples, or Plaza de los Siete Templos, is an intriguing architectural complex within the Tikal National Park. Situated south of Temple III and west of the South Acropolis, it's approximately 300 meters southwest of the Great Plaza. The plaza derives its name from the seven small temples constructed during the Late Classic Period, between 600 and 900 AD. The Plaza's layout includes a central patio, a north patio believed to have once contained a triple ballcourt, an east patio behind the temples, and a south patio. The seven temples themselves (Structures 5D-93 to 5D-99) line the east side of the plaza, while the palace complex (Structures 5D-90 to 5D-92) sits on the west side. Uniquely, the plaza also features three ball courts, an uncommon arrangement in Mayan cities, as most typically have only one. Archaeological findings reveal that the earliest traces of human activity in the plaza date back to around 650 BC, with the first construction occurring between 650 and 550 BC. The complex saw its second and final version during the Late Classic Period (600-900 AD). Excavations have also uncovered several burials within the plaza, offering insights into the lives and rituals of Tikal's inhabitants. Visiting the Plaza of the Seven Temples provides a captivating experience, allowing you to wander through a significant archaeological site and immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural marvels of the Mayan civilization.