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The caracol tower at chichen itza: an ancient astronomical observatory?
Science (New York, N.Y.)
|June 6, 1975
Summary
The Caracol building
Area of Science:
- Mesoamerican archaeology
- Archaeoastronomy
- Ethnohistory
Background:
- The Caracol, a Maya structure, is analyzed for its astronomical significance.
- Previous studies have noted alignments with celestial events, but comprehensive analysis is lacking.
- Mesoamerican cultures historically incorporated astronomical observations into architecture.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the astronomical orientations of the Caracol.
- To determine if specific architectural features align with significant celestial events.
- To explore the Caracol's function as an astronomical observatory.
Main Methods:
- Detailed measurement and analysis of the Caracol's architectural alignments.
- Comparison of alignments with known astronomical events (solar, lunar, planetary, stellar).
- Review of historical Mesoamerican texts and architectural parallels.
Main Results:
- Several alignments correspond to significant astronomical events, particularly solar and Venusian.
- Venus setting points show strong correlation with architectural features.
- Solar equinox alignment in Window I suggests a calendrical function.
- Other Mesoamerican circular structures share similarities with the Caracol.
Conclusions:
- The Caracol was likely designed as an astronomical observatory.
- Alignments with the sun and Venus were primary functions.
- Further research on similar structures may illuminate Maya astronomical practices.
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