Settlement and Subsistence in Tikal: The assembled work of Dennis E. Puleston (Field research 1961­1972)

From 1956 to 1970 excavations at Tikal, one of the most famous classical Maya sites, was carried out by the University of Pennsylvania Museum Tikal Project. Until now, much of the field research from these excavations has remained unpublished. This volume draws on the original work and data collected by Dennis E. Puleston. Puleston’s investigations at Tikal remain unparalleled and this edited and revised collection of his work presents the most extensive mapping work conducted outside of a Lowland Maya ceremonial centre. Work conducted at Tikal provides us with invaluable evidence for many aspects of Maya civilization including agriculture, water systems, earth-work systems and settlement hierarchies. This volume is the only full report of the Tikal survey and crucial for the understanding of Maya civilization. It also summarises related sub-projects, including excavations from satellite sites to Tikal and includes many photographs, maps and illustrations. By making this data accessible for the first time, the volume aims to answer old questions and stimulate new debates.