Kohunlich

Kohunlich, which derives it's name from the English "Cohune Ridge", was settled around 200 BC, but most existing structures were built built between 250 and 600 AD. Still photography here was free but a nominal fee (about $4) was charged to record video here.

Northwest Residential Complex and Palace

Once home to the elite members of Kohunlich society

Constructed late in the city's chronology



Acropolis

The largest structure at Kohunlich


Temple of the King

Rounded, pyramidal base


The Stands


Plaza of the Stelae


Temple of the Stelae

The stelae on the steps were originally found near the Temple of the King


Temple of the Twin Columns

Named for the double row of short columns lining the entrance


Ball Court

42 meters long

A hoop was placed at the top of the wall on each side of the court and balls were struck using the hips and upper arms in an attempt to score through the hoops. We were also told that the winners were sacrificed after the game was called, though there's been no concrete evidence to support this.


Pyramid of the Masks

The building is protected by a thatched canopy, hiding most of it from view from a distance. This thatched roof protects the coloration of the masks from the sun. They prohibit flash photography here for protection, as well.

On either side of the main stairs are a series of five (originally six, one was stolen) stone masks with a hint of the original coloring.

Faces all represent the sun god Kinich Ahau, though differences in each suggest that they also are a portrait of deified rulers of Kohunlich.

The symbol within the eyes of each mask represents Venus.



Merwin Plaza

Named after Raymond Merwin, who discovered the city in 1912.


Restoration Demarcation

Each structure that has undergone restoration has a row of small stones that denotes where the existing structure ends and archaeological restoration begins.


Miscellaneous Photos


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