Río Bec Architecture

Río Bec Architecture

Río Bec can also refer to a region or a specific Mayan site.

The unique Río Bec style was created in the Mayan Lowlands and appeared between 600 – 1100 AD. The refional reference is just north of the Petan.

The style contains a number of stylized elements that set them apart from other Mayan designs. Often there are twin towers built upon a solid platform type base. The towers are narrow towards the top to give the illusion of greater height. They are solid and do not contain rooms or chambers.

The temples at the top of the towers also are void of rooms or chambers. They have false entrances which give the illusion of functioning rooms.

The stairs leading to the top are false stairways and merely added as style element; the angle is extremely steep.

Examples of site that have Rio Bec styles are Río Bec, Becán, Chicanná, Culucbalom, El Hormiguero, Okolhuitz, Xpujil