North Acropolis, Tikal

The North Acropolis spans a vast complex of layered temples and platforms, rising prominently above the rainforest canopy at the northern edge of Tikal's Grand Plaza.

Between 350 BCE and 750 CE, rulers constructed multiple temples atop earlier structures, creating a complex that contains 43 stelae and 30 ceremonial altars.

The North Acropolis functioned as the primary burial location for Tikal's royal dynasty, with each successive ruler adding new temples to honor their predecessors.

Visitors reach the North Acropolis through stone steps leading from the Grand Plaza, with early morning tours providing optimal lighting for photography and fewer crowds.

The excavations revealed twelve sequential construction phases, with each layer containing tombs, artifacts, and architectural elements spanning more than 1300 years of Maya history.

GPS coordinates: 17.22270,-89.62340

Latest update: June 5, 2025 04:59