An Acropolis Group is described as a number of spatially associated structures, similar to a palace or temple type that is organised hierarchically on a series of elevated platforms. Admission to the higher levels of the complex was via strategically positioned stairways that provided predetermined routes of approach; these stairways gave access to a number of structures and associated courtyards. “The sequence [of an Acropolis Group] culminates in the most important buildings within the complex, usually a temple that is farthest removed from the plaza below both in terms of height and distance” (Andrews 1975: 67).
The distinguishing elements of dynastic-elite architecture are elevation, hierarchical arrangement, and restrictiveness. In accordance with Andrews (1975: 67), Cohodas (1973: 215) argues that Maya buildings and platforms that collectively comprise acropolis-type configurations are intentionally ordered as a progressive accent that starts at the entrance of the group and terminates with a principal structure at its farthermost point. In this type of building arrangement, lines of sight remain open as one moves progressively deeper into the complex and approaches the most elevated structures. The objective of this building configuration was to allow rituals undertaken by elites in the upper reaches of the complex to remain visible to the lower classes occupying the more accessible plazas below. This configuration is in sharp contrast to palace-type building groups, which are characterised by a series of closely arranged, private courtyards where lines ofsight are limited and buildings are less hierarchically organised (see Chapter 4, Architectural and Sculptural Programs of the Palenque Palace Group). In acknowledging the apparent differences in form between acropolis - and palace-type building groups, however, one can see that both share two characteristic features that define them as elite architectural forms - more specifically, their elevation and restrictiveness (Cohodas 1973: 216).
World History
