Comparative Analysis of Preclassic and Protoclassic Burial Practices at Izapa and in Southeastern Mesoamerica

A comparative analysis of burial practices at Izapa, a key Preclassic and Protoclassic site in southeastern Mesoamerica, reveals significant shifts around 100 BCE that correlate with changes in political organization. While few burials were found in the ceremonial precinct, those identified—primarily from the Hato and Itstapa phases (100 BCE–250 CE)—highlight a transition in mortuary traditions. This study contextualizes Izapa's practices within regional patterns by comparing them to neighboring sites like El Ujuxte, Takalik Abaj, and Kaminaljuyu, offering insights into the site's evolving social structure during this pivotal period.

Lieske, R. (2018). COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PRECLASSIC AND PROTOCLASSIC BURIAL PRACTICES AT IZAPA AND IN SOUTHEASTERN MESOAMERICA. Ancient Mesoamerica, 29(2), 289–307. https://doi.org/10.1017/s0956536118000226