How did the Maya use their environment to build architectural structures? (1 point)
• They developed a calendar to better understand the local climate.
• They used step terraces to build different structures.
• They mined limestone, sandstone, and volcanic tuff as building materials.
• They studied the stars to better understand how to construct buildings.
The Maya used their environment to build architectural structures in several ways:
- They used step terraces: The Maya constructed architectural structures such as temples, palaces, and pyramids using step terraces. By utilizing the natural topography of the land, they built these structures in a stepped manner, allowing for stability and easy construction on sloped terrain.
- They mined building materials: The Maya utilized the natural resources available in their environment to construct their buildings. They mined materials such as limestone, sandstone, and volcanic tuff to gather the necessary stones for construction. These materials were readily available in the regions where the Maya lived and provided durable and sturdy building materials.
- They studied the stars: The Maya had a deep understanding of astronomy and were able to observe and study the stars. They used their astronomical knowledge to align their buildings with astronomical events such as solstices or equinoxes. This allowed them to incorporate celestial alignments into their architectural design and construction.
In summary, the Maya extensively used step terraces, mined local building materials, and incorporated astronomical knowledge while constructing their architectural structures.