Ancient Maya Palaces: Architecture and Royal Power

Join the Library at 6:30 on Thursday, October 7th to learn about the history, architecture, and people that made ancient Mayan Palaces a centerpiece of Mayan culture from Dr. Ryan Mongelluzzo. 

During Classic times (AD250-900) Ancient Maya royalty used to live in huge stone and stucco palaces from the Yucatan down to Honduras. By studying how the layout of these compounds influenced movement and determined what was visible to visitors, we can gain an understanding of how rulers conveyed and maintained their power, legitimacy, and authority. What was it like to walk past a palace? Or to bring tribute and be seated in front of the throne? Then, to hear the ruler walking down the hallway? Dr. Ryan Mongelluzzo will answer these questions using his work from the palace at Holmul, Guatemala as well as data from the palaces at Palenque, Copan, and Tikal.

Dr. Ryan Mongelluzzo is an Associate Professor of Archaeology and Anthropology at San Diego Mesa College. He has a BA in Archaeological Studies from Boston University and a MA and PhD in Anthropology from UC-Riverside. Dr. Mongelluzzo has worked extensively in the lowland Maya areas of Belize and Guatemala including the sites of La Milpa and Holmul, and is currently working at the site of Ucanal, Guatemala, using drone-based LiDAR to map the site. A San Diego resident for the past seven years, Doc M (as his students know him) is on a perpetual hunt for the best Italian food in town!

This talk will be recorded and available for on demand viewing on the Library's Facebook and Youtube pages following the event.

Registration is recommended but not required. Please register below for this event.

**All-in person events will be subject to County of San Diego Health Department guidelines**