Artifact: Mayan Calendar

This Mayan calendar, called the Cuauhxicalli Eagle Bowl, is carved basalt (solidified lava) that conveys the Maya's study of the stars and their beliefs. Tonatuih, the sun god, is centered on the stone and is surrounded by detailed articulations of the different calendar cycles. The ideas of religion and astrology on the calendar, both deeply affect the Maya's design. The stars guided the Maya in the design of their cities' orientations and the most important structures in the Mayan cities were constructed to glorify their gods.