Tikal Temple 33

Temple 33 stands 33 meters tall in the North Acropolis of Tikal, featuring stepped architecture and stucco masks flanking the central stairway.

The structure underwent three construction phases over two centuries, beginning as a mortuary shrine for King Siyaj Chan K'awiil II in 457 CE.

The temple incorporates architectural elements from both Maya and Teotihuacan traditions, as evidenced by Stela 31's carved imagery and construction methods.

Archaeologists dismantled the final version of Temple 33 in 1965, making the original structure no longer accessible to current visitors.

Temple 33 contained one of the most informative Maya carved monuments, Stela 31, which depicts royal lineage and political connections with Teotihuacan.

Location: Petén Department

Architectural style: Maya architecture

GPS coordinates: 17.22250,-89.62350

Latest update: March 4, 2025 09:40