The Mayans lived in houses that were typically made from materials readily available in their environment. These houses were designed to be practical and suited to the tropical climate of the region.
The most common type of house was the thatched-roof house. These houses were constructed using wooden poles for the frame, walls made from woven sticks and mud, and roofs thatched with palm leaves. The thatched roofs were particularly effective in keeping the interior cool and dry, even during heavy rains.
Mayan houses were usually rectangular in shape and had a single room. The floor was often made of packed earth, and the walls were sometimes plastered with lime to create a smoother surface. The houses were elevated on low platforms to protect them from flooding and to provide better ventilation.
Inside the house, there was minimal furniture. Hammocks were commonly used for sleeping, and mats were placed on the floor for sitting. Cooking was typically done outside in a separate area to keep the living space clean and free from smoke.
These houses were not just places to live but also served as centers for family life and daily activities. The design and construction of Mayan houses reflect their deep understanding of the environment and their ability to adapt to it.