The Maya Altar at San Gervasio

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James Blake Wiener
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published on 14 March 2018
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The Maya Altar at San Gervasio Download Full Size Image

This structure had a ceremonial use for the Maya people as it lies in the middle of the plaza at San Gervasio, which is located on the island of Cozumel, Mexico. It therefore must have served as a dais from which the speaker addressed the people who would gather here. On can observe two different construction periods for this altar: to the west, there are balustraded steps, completely covered with stucco, which is the oldest part of the construction and dates to the Terminal Classic Period (c. 1000-1200 CE); the later structure, which cover the first one, belongs to the Post Classic Period (1200-1650 CE).

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About the Author

James Blake Wiener
James is a writer and former Professor of History. He holds an MA in World History with a particular interest in cross-cultural exchange and world history. He is a co-founder of World History Encyclopedia and formerly was its Communications Director.

Cite This Work

APA Style

Wiener, J. B. (2018, March 14). The Maya Altar at San Gervasio. World History Encyclopedia. Retrieved from https://www.worldhistory.org/image/8310/the-maya-altar-at-san-gervasio/

Chicago Style

Wiener, James Blake. "The Maya Altar at San Gervasio." World History Encyclopedia. Last modified March 14, 2018. https://www.worldhistory.org/image/8310/the-maya-altar-at-san-gervasio/.

MLA Style

Wiener, James Blake. "The Maya Altar at San Gervasio." World History Encyclopedia. World History Encyclopedia, 14 Mar 2018. Web. 22 Feb 2025.

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