Saturday April 29, 2017

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Website of the Day
Institute of Archaeology (NICH)

We are committed to the preservation of Belize's ancient and historical era monuments and artifacts; the exhibition and interpretation of Belize's documented, photographic and oral history and the promotion of contemporary performing, literary and plastic arts. Through our research and community outreach activities, NICH seeks to help provide access to Belize’s cultural past, present and future.

Corbelled arch at Cahal Pech

The corbelled arch or corbelled vault was an architectural feature used by the ancient Maya, while distinctive in Mesoamerica, was also used by other cultures around the world such as the Java in Indonesia. For a corbelled vault to be durable, it must be tall and narrow, which limits the width of rooms that can be built with it. As a result, Maya rooms are long, dark, and narrow.

Top photograph by Dee Atherley, 2nd photo by Institute of Archaeology (NICH). Third photo by Bob Biddix

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