The Preclassic Period

Chapter 10 examines the beginnings of the residential settlement pattern for the late Middle Preclassic Period at Ek Balam, in northeast Yucatan. It also offers a discussion of the transition to the Late Preclassic period and information about the transition of village life toward urban origins during this ancient time at the site. The Middle Preclassic ceramic assemblage is similar to others in the northern Maya lowlands and the data suggests a dispersed settlement pattern with hints at a site-wide construction standard. Also of interest is that the archaeological data suggests paired structures. During the Late Preclassic there is a gradual shift in the settlement pattern including possible nucleation on the eastern side. There is also no longer evidence for paired structures.