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Guatemala

Takalik Abaj

Large Mesoamerican site with Olmec-Maya features.

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

About

Tak'alik Ab'aj, located in southwestern Guatemala, is a significant pre-Columbian archaeological site that exhibits a unique blend of Olmec and Maya cultural influences. Spanning from the Early Iron Age to the Late Post-Classical Period, this site saw extensive occupation and development, characterized by complex architectural structures, ceremonial platforms, and a sophisticated water management system. The site's strategic position facilitated trade across Mesoamerica, evidenced by contact with distant centers such as Teotihuacan. Notable features include a Maya royal tomb, early hieroglyphic inscriptions, and both Olmec and Maya style monuments. Tak'alik Ab'aj's ongoing excavation continues to provide valuable insights into the cultural transitions and trade networks of ancient Mesoamerica.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Takalik Abaj

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Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Miscellaneous Features

Caches

Water Management Features

Irrigation CanalsSaunas

Burial and Funerary Structures

Tombs

Religious and Ritual Structures

StelaeCeremonial PlatformsAltars

Artistic and Decorative Features

MonumentsPetroglyphs

Agricultural and Land Use Features

Terraces

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Cities

Transportation and Communication Structures

Roads

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Guatemala
Source
Wikipedia