Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Location
About
Tres Islas is a significant Maya archaeological site located in Petén, Guatemala, notable for its astronomical alignment and sculpted monuments. The site, active during the Late Preclassic through Late Classic periods, features three Maya stelae and an altar arranged to mimic an E-Group astronomical complex, which is indicative of the Maya's advanced understanding of celestial events. This arrangement suggests the site served both ceremonial and observational purposes. Tres Islas was once the Early Classic capital of the Cancuen-Machaquila kingdom, a period influenced by Teotihuacan, as evidenced by the iconography on one of the stelae. The site's stelae, all dedicated in 475 CE, record historical events from 400 CE and 416 CE, offering insight into the political and cultural dynamics of the era.
Gallery
Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Tres Islas
Archaeological Features
Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Religious and Ritual Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Astronomical and Timekeeping Structures
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history
Plan Your Visit
Details
- Country
- Guatemala
- Source
- Wikipedia
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