essay

Archaeological investigations at Cuello, 1975-1987

cuello : an early maya community in belize • Cambridge [England] • Published In 1991 • Pages: 8-22

By: Hammond, Norman, Wilk, Richard R., Kosakowsky, Laura J..

Abstract

Hammond discusses the research plan and methods employed at the Cuello site from 1975-1987. Cuello is a 'large minor ceremonial center' discovered during the 1973-1974 Corozal Project survey. In 1975, 1976, and 1980 the Cuello site was mapped and 200 structures numbered. A pyramid, Structure 39, had been bulldozed revealing Middle and Late Preclassic sherds (Mamom and Chicanel sphere.) Researchers decided to investigate the nearby Platform 34 and Structure 35. The Platform was initially built 400-300 B.C., but covered a series of patios and courtyards with radiocarbon dates as early as the middle of the second millenium B.C. The researchers employed a method of contextual analysis of artifacts in order to determine their depositional history. They recorded the size and condition of artifacts, and the faunal content and soil texture of the deposits. This information helped to determine if the artifacts were refuse, fill, recycled, or used in ceremonial rites.

HRAF PubDate

2001

Region

Middle America and the Caribbean

Sub Region

Maya Area

Document Type

essay

Evaluation

Creator Type

Archaeologist

Document Rating

4: Excellent Secondary Data

5: Excellent Primary Data

Analyst

Ian Skoggard ; 2000

Field Date

1975-1987

Coverage Date

4000-1850 BP

Coverage Place

Cuello, Belize

Notes

Norman Hammond ; Richard R. Wilk and Laura J. Kosakowsky

Contextual analysis / Richard R. Wilk, Laura J. Kosakowsky

For bibliographical references see document number 9: Anonymous

LCCN

90001858

LCSH

Mayas--Antiquities