The inhabitants of the ancient city of Tikal, belonging to the Maya civilization, knew the secret to survival in water-deprived areas. Despite being located in present-day Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Belize, these great Maya city-states thrived on lands where water was scarce, but the agricultural soil was excellent.
To mitigate the lack of water, the Maya constructed reservoir systems that grew larger and more complex over time. It’s worth mentioning that the reservoirs in Tikal were able to hold enormous amounts of water, even over 900,000 cubic meters. This undoubtedly speaks to the high level of technological and engineering advancement of the Maya civilization.
During the Late Classic period, between 600 and 800 AD, Tikal was inhabited by approximately 80,000 people. The reservoirs, which provided water for the people and agricultural crops, played a crucial role in survival during the dry season. It was not only a matter of access to clean water, but also an important part of the community’s political structure – the largest reservoirs were built near palaces and temples, symbolizing the connection between power and water.
This fascinating discovery indicates that water and power were inseparably linked in ancient Tikal. The Maya were well aware of the significance of controlling water resources and utilized them to sustain their community and develop their civilization.
FAQ
What was the importance of the reservoirs in Tikal for the Maya community?
The reservoirs in Tikal played a crucial role in providing clean water to the people and irrigating agricultural crops during dry periods. Additionally, the location of these reservoirs near palaces and temples suggests a close connection between water and power.
How large were the reservoirs in Tikal?
The largest reservoirs in Tikal could hold over 900,000 cubic meters of water.
During which years did Tikal experience its greatest development?
The Maya reached their peak development in Tikal during the Late Classic period, between 600 and 800 AD.
Definitions
Maya – an ancient civilization of indigenous people inhabiting the area of present-day Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, and Belize.
Tikal – one of the most important Maya cities, located in present-day Guatemala.
Reservoirs – artificial water storage systems built by the Maya for collecting drinking water and irrigation purposes.
Source: example.com
The source of the article is from the blog queerfeed.com.br