EK BALAM, Mexico - Carved sculpture at the Tomb of Ukit Kan Le'k Tok' on top of the Acropolis on the northern side of the Ek'Balam archeological site on Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. It was once a thriving city of Maya Civilization dating to the Late Classic period. It is 30km north of Valladolid and is named for "Black Jaguar" a distinctive motif throughout the site.
Ek' Balam is an ancient Mayan archaeological site located in the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico. The site was inhabited from around 100 BC to 1200 AD and was a thriving city during the Late Classic period (600-900 AD). Ek' Balam is known for its well-preserved ruins, intricate carvings, and impressive architectural achievements. The main structure at Ek' Balam is the Acropolis, a massive building that houses the tomb of Ukit Kan Lek Tok', a significant ruler in the city's history. The Acropolis features a large central staircase adorned with detailed carvings, including the stucco relief known as the "Winged Warriors," which showcases Mayan artistic skills. Another notable structure at Ek' Balam is El Trono, also known as "The Throne," an oval-shaped building with a unique façade that includes a Mayan glyph representing the ruler Ukit Kan Lek Tok'. Other structures at the site include defensive walls, residential buildings, and a ball court, all providing insight into the daily lives and cultural practices of the ancient Mayan civilization. Ek' Balam is an important destination for historians, archaeologists, and tourists interested in the Mayan civilization. The site's well-preserved state allows visitors to appreciate the architectural and artistic achievements of the Mayan people and contributes to our understanding of their history and culture.
Size: 2420px × 3615px
Location: Ek'Balam Archeological Site, Ek'Balam, Quintana Roo, Mexico
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
Keywords: ancient, archaeology, archeological, art, artistic, balam, black, carvings, civilization, clay, crypt, decoration, ek, ekbalam, historic, jaguar, kan, lek, maya, mayan, mesoamerican, mexican, mexico, peninsula, pre-colombian, riviera, ruins, sculpture, statue, stone, tok, tomb, ukit, yucatan
