The Market (or Mercado) was named by the Spanish, but its precise function is under debate by scholars. It is a large, colonnaded building with a spacious interior court. The interior gallery space is open and unpartioned, and a large patio lies in front of the only entrance, accessed by a broad stairway. There were three hearths and grinding stones found in this structure, which scholars normally interpret as evidence of domestic activities--but because the building offers no privacy, scholars believe it was likely a ceremonial or council house function. This building clearly is of Toltec construction.
Mayanist Falken Forshaw updates: Shannon Plank in her recent dissertation argues this as a place for fire ceremonies.
Mayanist Falken Forshaw updates: Shannon Plank in her recent dissertation argues this as a place for fire ceremonies.
