This thesis comprises the investigation of the differing manifestations of re-using Maya monumental architecture. It is focused on the region of Yucatán, the case studies being the Tigrillo Palace...Show moreThis thesis comprises the investigation of the differing manifestations of re-using Maya monumental architecture. It is focused on the region of Yucatán, the case studies being the Tigrillo Palace Complex at San Bartolo (Guatemala), the E- Group at Tikal (Guatemala), and an ancient Maya E-Group located in the contemporary community of Todos Santos Cuchumatán (Guatemala). The main focus lies in the analysis of the perception, meaning and function of architectural spaces, considering both past and present perspectives, in regard to the choices made by peoples in terms of how and why to re-use these structures. What do the diverse kinds of re-use and remodeling imply about notions of continuity and change within Maya society? What methods can be used to illuminate how people perceived their past? The Tigrillo Palace Complex at San Bartolo was completely reconstructed by settlers after the site was re-inhabited in the Late Classic period after 400 years of abandonment. A different kind of re-use is visible at the E-Group at Tikal, which was preserved through centuries of constant overbuilding, but subsequent construction phases did not exactly mirror those of the previous periods. The third case study, an ancient Maya E-Group complex located in the town of Todos Santos Cuchumatán, features monumental structures that are now re-used in the present day by the local indigenous community through ceremonial and ritual activities taking place within the building complex. This study will compare and contrast the three diverging ways of re-use and re-interpretation of monumental architecture from the past and consider its role in the present. Especially the study of how contemporary Maya peoples are incorporating ancient Maya structures into their daily lives is aimed to shed light on the potential of including Indigenous Peoples into scientific research. Furthermore, one central aspect of this work is raising awareness for the situation of Indigenous Peoples in Mesoamerica, and to discuss how archaeological approaches can be designed to benefit not only archaeologists, but also indigenous communities. The potential of including Indigenous specialists into research should be recognised and made use of; in addition to this, it is crucial to include indigenous voices and opinions - not merely as consultants of Western researchers, but as specialists themselves that can actively and freely participate in the planning and implementation of research projects.Show less
