COBÁ.- The majestic Nohoch Mul pyramid, the tallest Mayan structure in the northern Yucatan Peninsula, is getting some much-needed TLC thanks to a dedicated team of archaeologists and restorers. Standing at an impressive 42 meters (138 feet) tall, this ancient marvel in the Cobá archaeological zone is undergoing careful conservation work to ensure it stands strong for centuries to come.


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The project is part of Mexico's Program for the Improvement of Archaeological Zones (Promeza), overseen by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH). From August to December 2024, the team focused on two key platforms at the top of the pyramid, applying what they call "sacrificial floors."

Think of these "sacrificial floors" as a protective layer. Archaeologists Julieta Ramos Pacheco and Aquetzalli Rodríguez Fuentes explained that this involves carefully covering the original, centuries-old stonework with a compatible modern material. This new layer acts as a shield, absorbing the impact of weather and time, preventing further damage to the precious archaeological remains underneath.

The process is meticulous. First, any existing repairs (like old cement work) and vegetation are removed. Then, a base layer of fine stone dust is laid down, leveled, and compacted. This is followed by a layer of small gravel and finally, a mortar made of lime paste, more stone dust, and finer gravel – a mix the local workers affectionately call "calcreto."

This process adds a few centimeters to the platform height, about two to three for leveling and another three for the "calcreto" layer. But the team is careful to maintain the original design, including the drainage slopes, using fill material from the site itself – just as the ancient Maya builders did.

Beyond the "sacrificial floors," the team also repaired cracks and deteriorated joints in the stonework, using a special lime-based mortar to fill and seal them.

Rodríguez Fuentes is optimistic about the long-term impact of their work. "Lime paste is a very durable material," she said. "If the original floors have lasted for thousands of years, we hope this sacrificial floor will last as long as possible." She also noted the challenges of the local climate, with heavy rains and intense heat requiring careful monitoring and adjustments to the restoration process, such as regularly hydrating the new layers during hot spells.

The project also involved some careful excavation, including test pits and trenches, to better understand the pyramid’s construction methods and internal structure. On one platform, they found evidence suggesting it wasn't used for everyday activities but rather for rituals or government functions. On another, they uncovered evidence of three earlier stucco floors, indicating three separate phases of restoration during pre-Hispanic times.

The team also included archaeologist Aldo Germán Dena Castro, responsible for the temple roof, and restorers Carolina Segura and Carlos Monroy.

Nohoch Mul has a long and rich history, with continuous occupation from around 300 to 1200 AD. Its construction began during the Classic period (200-900 AD), with the upper temple added during the Postclassic period (900-1521 AD), showing influences of the Petén Mayan architectural style, known for its tall, vertical pyramids with steep staircases and elaborate roof combs, explained Ramos.

Adding another layer to the site’s history, a “Foundation Rock” discovered in 2024 connects to the building’s establishment as a seat of power in 569 AD on what was known as “Hill of the Deer” or Nohoch Mul (which actually means “Big Hill”).

This careful conservation work ensures that the Nohoch Mul pyramid will continue to stand as a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of the ancient Maya, offering future generations a tangible link to the past.


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