Palace at the Mayan Ruins of Uxmal
by Mark Tisdale
Title
Palace at the Mayan Ruins of Uxmal
Artist
Mark Tisdale
Medium
Photograph - Photo
Description
For a lot o the ancient Maya ruins, the Spanish names for them are usually pretty far off. The names usually reflect what the buildings reminded them of back home in Spain, but these ruins at Uxmal may not be far off. The Spanish called them Palacio del Gobernador, a name which has stuck. From what I read about the ruins at Uxmal, it's believed that it was a regional administrative center and this may have even been a governmental building.
And when you look at the elaborate and sweeping details in the huge frieze across the top of these ruins, it definitely has that grand feeling that so often accompanies government buildings of many cultures.
The hills where Uxmal is located gives the name to this style of architecture, Puuc. And I have to say that it's probably my favorite of the Mayan architecture I've seen to date. the detailed stonework really speaks to the artist in me on some level. I felt that when I stood in Uxmal several years ago and I still feel it when I look at photos of these impressive Mayan ruins today. There may always be mysteries surrounding the Maya, but you can't help looking at the remnants of their culture and seeing the artistic side that thrived there.
Note: The Mayan ruins at Uxmal are a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site.
Uploaded
May 7th, 2013
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