A total of 432 structures have been recorded at Comalcalco, over an extended area whose actual size is matter of debate. The urban center is divided into three major monumental groups: the North Plaza, the Great Acropolis Plaza, and the Great Acropolis. Many archaeologists have remarked on the similarity between the architecture of Comalcalco and Palenque: the temples have similar plans and orientation, and are decorated with a large number of niches. In addition, some of the main buildings in both sites have vaulted roofs, sustained by pillars that form internal galleries. While this is a common trait for the palaces of Comalcalco and Palenque, other roofs were made of perishable material.
Comalcalco also had a drainage system made of underground fired-clay pipes. The abundant use of plaster and stucco decorations is another element that Comalcalco and Palenque have in common. The peculiarity of Comalcalco is that most if its architecture was made of fired bricks instead of limestone, as is common in the Maya lowlands. The reason is probably that stone was relatively unavailable in the alluvial plains of Tabasco.
- Guide to the Maya Civilization
- Mesoamerican Timeline
- Maya Lowlands
- Palenque
