Question
Here is the question : PALENQUE IS AN ANCIENT CITY THAT ONCE THRIVED UNDER WHAT CIVILIZATION?
Option
Here is the option for the question :
- Carthage
- Maya
- Phoenicia
- Assyria
The Answer:
And, the answer for the the question is :
Explanation:
Palenque’s ancient ruins, which date from roughly 226 BCE to 799 CE, feature outstanding examples of Maya construction. Before it inexplicably vanished, the city-state flourished for five centuries, leaving behind a number of temples in the Mexican jungle. After being lost for 900 years, Palenque was rediscovered along with the unaltered tomb of the 7th-century Mayan monarch Pakal.
Palenque stands as a testament to the ancient Maya civilization, which once thrived in Mesoamerica. Located in what is now the state of Chiapas, Mexico, Palenque was a significant city that flourished during the Classic Period of Maya history, roughly between the 3rd and 9th centuries CE. This captivating archaeological site offers a glimpse into the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the Maya people.
The ancient city of Palenque was inhabited by the Maya for centuries and played a vital role in their political, religious, and cultural landscape. It was a center of power and influence, ruled by a succession of Maya kings and elites. Palenque’s strategic location in the dense rainforests of the region allowed it to thrive as a vibrant urban center, with a complex network of trade, agriculture, and artistic expression.
Palenque is renowned for its impressive architecture, intricate artwork, and advanced understanding of astronomy and mathematics. The city features a plethora of well-preserved structures, including temples, palaces, and residential complexes. The most iconic and notable structure is the Temple of the Inscriptions, which houses a tomb believed to belong to the renowned Maya ruler, Pakal the Great.
The Temple of the Inscriptions is a magnificent pyramid adorned with intricate carvings and hieroglyphics that recount the history and mythology of the Maya civilization. The tomb of Pakal the Great, discovered in 1952, revealed a wealth of information about Maya royal lineage and rituals. The elaborate artwork and inscriptions within the temple provide valuable insights into the religious beliefs, political system, and cosmology of the Maya.
Palenque is also known for its stunning examples of Maya art and sculpture. Intricately carved stelae and altars depict scenes from mythology, historical events, and the lives of the ruling elite. The intricate details and symbolism present in these artworks highlight the Maya’s profound understanding of their world and their artistic prowess.
The Maya civilization’s contributions to astronomy are evident in the alignment of Palenque’s structures with celestial events, such as the positioning of temples to correspond with solstices and equinoxes. The Maya’s advanced understanding of celestial cycles allowed them to create accurate calendars and make astronomical predictions, which greatly influenced their religious and agricultural practices.
Exploring the ruins of Palenque offers visitors a captivating journey into the world of the Maya. The well-preserved structures, intricate sculptures, and captivating artwork provide a glimpse into the daily lives, religious practices, and cultural achievements of this ancient civilization. The site’s lush surroundings, encompassing the jungle and waterfalls, add to its allure and make it a truly immersive experience.
Palenque continues to be a subject of ongoing archaeological research and exploration, with new discoveries continually adding to our understanding of the Maya civilization. Excavations have revealed more about the city’s complex urban planning, architectural techniques, and cultural practices. These findings contribute to the broader narrative of the Maya’s achievements and their enduring legacy.
Palenque, an ancient city located in present-day Mexico, was once a thriving center of the Maya civilization. Its well-preserved structures, intricate artwork, and advanced understanding of astronomy showcase the Maya’s cultural and architectural achievements. Palenque offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history and mythology of the Maya, gaining insights into their political systems, religious beliefs, and artistic expressions. This archaeological site stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Maya civilization and their significant contributions to Mesoamerican history.