Architectural development at a Classic Maya secondary center, Say Kah, Belize

The ancient Maya are known for their multiple complex polities and shifting centers of power. Throughout the Classic Period, these states developed an intricate form of stratified society. Excavations in Group B at the middle level center of Say Kah in Belize revealed architecture consistent with elite populations living in upper level centers throughout the Maya world. This discovery sparked an investigation into the architectural makeup of middle level sites throughout the Three Rivers Region and the social, political, and economic relationships that the middle level of settlement shared with one another, as well as with major upper level centers. This thesis uses comparative data to suggest a rethinking of middle level categorization and site ranking.;In order to better interpret the organization of Maya society in the Three Rivers Region, an integrated approach of both hierarchical and heterarchical models will provide a more holistic view of the interdependent linkages that developed throughout the region. Elite markers found at Say Kah are a key factor in this argument, as their presence suggests that an elite presence existed at the site, outside of the nearby major center, La Milpa.