Worship of the Sun and its influence on Mayan architecture

The use of light and the large scale of the exterior spaces are the two factors that mostly shape Mayan architecture. How such spaces are organized and perceived is of main interest for the development of this paper. The Maya made remarkable use of the sun's angle of incidence, as in tropical latitudes, the smallest projection is actually responsible for quite deep shadows. The use of contrast is deeply explored by the smooth walls as well as endless decoration, as it is clear that the Maya gained their effects mostly by association and contrast. Between the huge facades, their generous proportions radiant in the sunlight, and the tiny, dark, almost oppressive interior spaces, it is established a dialectic of architectural symbolism. Without doubt, a heritage of beauty, light and balance.