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Evaluation of an Early Classic Round Structure at Santa Rita Corozal, Belize

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Date Issued:
2015
Abstract/Description:
Round structures in the Maya area are an architectural form that is not well understood, in part due to the relatively few examples recovered through archaeological excavations. The site of Santa Rita Corozal, Belize offers one of the few examples of an Early Classic Period round structure (Structure 135) in the Maya region, one that is distinctive in its timing and architectural form. This thesis seeks to compare Structure 135 with the patterns of round structures identified in the Preclassic and Terminal/early Postclassic Periods, when there are comparatively more examples and to pinpoint the multiple construction periods evidenced in the excavations to define the changes to the structure over time. Based on this research, Structure 135 at Santa Rita Corozal does not clearly conform to earlier or later patterns of round structures in the Maya region and its use before abandonment and eventual transformation to a rectilinear shape was shorter than previously thought. This research also offers insights into the need for the contextual analysis of ceramics, and the difficulties of assuming context through the use of construction fill, even with a clear cultural formation process.
Title: Evaluation of an Early Classic Round Structure at Santa Rita Corozal, Belize.
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Name(s): Kangas, Rachael, Author
Chase, Arlen, Committee Chair
Chase, Diane, Committee CoChair
Barber, Sarah, Committee Member
University of Central Florida, Degree Grantor
Type of Resource: text
Date Issued: 2015
Publisher: University of Central Florida
Language(s): English
Abstract/Description: Round structures in the Maya area are an architectural form that is not well understood, in part due to the relatively few examples recovered through archaeological excavations. The site of Santa Rita Corozal, Belize offers one of the few examples of an Early Classic Period round structure (Structure 135) in the Maya region, one that is distinctive in its timing and architectural form. This thesis seeks to compare Structure 135 with the patterns of round structures identified in the Preclassic and Terminal/early Postclassic Periods, when there are comparatively more examples and to pinpoint the multiple construction periods evidenced in the excavations to define the changes to the structure over time. Based on this research, Structure 135 at Santa Rita Corozal does not clearly conform to earlier or later patterns of round structures in the Maya region and its use before abandonment and eventual transformation to a rectilinear shape was shorter than previously thought. This research also offers insights into the need for the contextual analysis of ceramics, and the difficulties of assuming context through the use of construction fill, even with a clear cultural formation process.
Identifier: CFE0005962 (IID), ucf:50798 (fedora)
Note(s): 2015-12-01
M.A.
Sciences, Anthropology
Masters
This record was generated from author submitted information.
Subject(s): Maya -- architecture -- round structure
Persistent Link to This Record: http://purl.flvc.org/ucf/fd/CFE0005962
Restrictions on Access: campus 2018-12-15
Host Institution: UCF

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