Pre-Columbian architecture of the United States is the oldest surviving architecture on this territory. It had been originated by indigenous tribes before the European arrival in the States in the 15th c. It dates back to ancient times. As there were great many native American tribes, and each of them was different from one another, Pre-Columbian architecture is very diversified and each of the buildings is unique. Three major native American tribes were: The Maya, The Aztec, The Inca. Consequently, they occupied territories of nowadays Mesoamerica, Mexico, Peru.
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| Locations of indigenous tribes of Americas |
1. Maya architecture
Maya architecture was very diversified. The tribe constructed such things as ceremonial platforms, palaces, and Cave sites, but it is mostly notable for its pyramids and temples.
Examples:
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| Temple I, Tikal, Guatemala |
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| Temple of the Inscriptions, Palenque |
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| Nunnery Quadrangle, Uxmal |
2. Aztec architecture
All of the Aztec architecture is very impressive, but it is generally known for its great temples and pyramids. Aztec architecture was very developed and the Aztec often wanted to outdo other tribes in terms of architecture and tried to build as high and magnificent buildings as possible.
Examples:
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| Pyramid of Santa Cecilia |
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| Tenayuca, Mexico |
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| House of the Eagle Warriors |
3. Inca architecture
Inca architecture is probably the most impressive. The Inca used mostly stone, stone blocks and mortar in order to build their buildings. Their architecture is various and abounds in many different types of buildings. We probably all know the most famous buildings of the Inca, even though we do not realize that they were built by them.
Examples:
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| The famous Machu Picchu |
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| Machu Picchu |
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| Inca agricultural terraces in Pisac |
TASK: Find other examples of the Maya, the Aztec and the Inca buildings. :)
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