Calakmul

Calakmul is a Maya archaeological site in the Mexican state of Campeche, deep in the jungles of the greater Petén Basin region [1]. Calakmul was one of the largest and most powerful Mayan cities [1]. Calakmul is estimated to have had a population of 50,000 people and had governance, at times, over places as far away as 150 kilometers [1]. Structure 2 is over 45 metres high, making it one of the tallest of the Mesoamerican pyramids [1]. Throughout the Classic period, Calakmul maintained an intense rivalry with the city of Tikal to the south [1]. Calakmul has a long occupational history and excavations have revealed evidence from the Middle Preclassic right through to the Postclassic [1]. From the second half of the 6th century AD through to the late 7th century Calakmul gained the upper hand although it failed to extinguish Tikal's power completely and Tikal was able to turn the tables on its great rival in a decisive battle that took place in AD 695 [1]. Calakmul experienced its highest achievements during the reign of king Yuknoom Che'en II [1].