Repairing the roofs of an archaeological site in La Blanca, Guatemala
The protection of the remains of an ancient Mayan city
The ancient Mayan city of La Blanca was severely damaged by a storm in October 2012. The thatched roofs over the
west and south side of the Palace and over the Pyramidal Temple, which protected the Mayan graffiti and stucco coating
on the walls, collapsed, leaving the interior exposed to the elements. If immediate action is not taken, these remarkable
remnants of the past face complete destruction.
La Blanca is located in the department of Petén in Guatemala. As one of the largest Mesoamerican Late Classic sites and
one of the first where a pyramid temple was built, La Blanca is a fine example of quintessential Mesoamerican
architecture. This site is especially well preserved with many decorations and sculpted stone friezes still in place and in
remarkable condition. La Blanca exhibits a considerable level of artistic skill dating back to the last phase of the
occupation of the Acropolis, during the Terminal Classic and Early Postclassic. Local fauna and human figures, some of
which are playing musical instruments, are engraved onto the walls. Animals depicted in the graffiti include deer, turtles,
frogs and snakes, while other subjects include pyramid temples, courtly scenes, vulvas and supernatural beings. The cut
stone walls of the Acropolis are of very high quality. They consist of large, finely cut blocks filled with rubble and mortar,
forming walls nearly 2 metres thick. The exterior facades are carefully finished, while the interior is comprised of vaulted
ceilings of good quality. Quality architecture of this kind can be found in parts of major cities such as Tikal (one of the
largest Maya urban centres), but its presence in a smaller site such as La Blanca is very surprising.
This project is particularly interesting in the way in which the site is being managed, researched and maintained in
cooperation with the local community. Their large contribution to the project ensures its sustainability and serves as a
case study for the preservation of other (archaeological) sites. An amount of 35.000,- will be used to rebuild the
thatched roofs using new techniques. These techniques will ensure that the roofs are able to withstand the next storm,
protecting this site for the long-term.
Where:
Melchor de Mencos, Petén, Guatemala
When:
As soon as possible
Who:
Dr. Cristina Vidal Lorenzo, director of the La Blanca Project in Petén, Guatemala
Budget:
35.000,- euro