Calakmul Architectural Features
Calakmul is an architectural sequence with figures sculpted in stone and modeled in plaster.
The largest structures and urban plan for Calakmul were constructed toward the end of the
Middle Pre-classic period (550 B.C. – 300 B.C.).
Urban design
The core of Calakmul covers 2 square kilometers an area that contains the remains of
roughly 1000 structures.
The periphery was occupied by smaller residential structures beyond the site core covers an
area of more than 20 square kilometers.
Archaeologists have mapped approximately 6250 structures but only the core area
structures are open to the public.
Calakmul matches Tikal in size and estimated population, but appears to have greater
density.
Reservoirs and Water
The site is surrounded by an extensive network of canals and reservoirs.
Sacbes
Eight sacbes have been located around Calakmul.
Two of these have been mapped, three have been identified visually on the ground and
three more identified with remote sensing.
The sacbes not only linked Calakmul with local suburban sites but also with more distant
allies and rivals, such as the great cities of El Mirador, El Tintal and Nakbe.
Structure 1
Is located to the east of the plaza center.
A number of Stella were erected at its base by the Ruler Yuknoom Took’ K’awiil in 731.
It was built on a low hill; Structure 1 appears to be higher than Structure 2.
