Copán

(noun)

An important city that boasted some of the most complex architecture from the Classic period of Maya history.

Related Terms

Examples of Copán in the following topics:

  • The Classic Period of the Maya

    • On the other hand, cities like Tikal and Copán illustrate the wealth of architectural accomplishments during these prolific centuries.
    • Copán came to its full power between the 6th and 8th centuries, and included massive temples and carvings that illustrate the full power of its ruling, and often merciless, emperors.
    • The classic Maya urban centers of the southern lowlands, among them Palenque, Copán, Tikal, Calakmul, and many others, went into decline during the 8th and 9th centuries and were abandoned shortly thereafter.

  • The Decline of the Maya

    • If a royal court fell out of favor with the people, as in the well-documented cases of Piedras Negras or Copan, this fall from power would cause the inevitable "death" and abandonment of the associated settlement.