Theory No. 6 (The Connection between public and private spaces)

Theory No. 6

Classic Era Maya urban design can be simplified as the division of space by great monuments and structures as well as main causeways. Open public plazas were the gathering places for people and the main focus of design while interior spaces were secondary.

The main public plaza is the most important due to the fact that both the Palace and Temple entrances openly face the Plaza and sit between the Palace and Temple. It serves as a link of trade, discussion and activity. The hub of the Maya cities were the large plazas surrounded by important governmental and religious buildings so that they were easily accessible by all of those who needed it.

The areas deemed “Private:” the Palace and the Temple, are bolded while the areas deemed “Public:” the main plaza are the lighter line weight. The public area is larger and intersects the private area at one of the stairs of the Palace. Besides this, they are independent and the public area is much larger and is enveloped by the private area.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maya_civilization