Norris White, Jr. - Low Temple Mound
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This mound, identified as the Low Temple Mound, reached 10 feet in height and measured 140 by 90 feet. Archaeological evidence shows that temple mounds like this were built up gradually over centuries, with structures being deliberately destroyed and buried under new layers of earth. At this site, remnants of at least two structures were found beneath the mound, and more were likely once atop it before erosion. Mound building generally involved a cycle of ceremonially burning temples, covering them with earth, and rebuilding atop the enlarged mound. Archaeologists continue to debate why temples were intentionally destroyed.
Norris White, Jr. - Low Temple Mound
- 1. -The Low Temple Mound- Archaeologists have identified this mound as the Low Temple Mound based on its similarity to other known Temple Mound sites. Evidence suggests that the Temple Mound reached a maximum of 10 ft. in height and measured 140 x 90ft. in area. Archaeological evidence at this site and similar mound sites indicates that Temple Mounds were raised over long periods of time, perhaps several centuries. Structural remains of at least 2 deliberately destroyed structures were found beneath this mound. Extensive erosion may have destroyed evidence of structures above this platform, but excavation at this site and elsewhere has revealed that specialized temple structures were often built on these mounds. Generally, mound building occurred in 3 stages: (1) the periodic ceremonial destruction of Temple structures, often by fire; (2) the mounding of earth over the destroyed structure; and (3) the building of new temples atop the newly enlarged mound. Archaeologists continue to speculate over why the temples were ceremonially destroyed. Changes in the tribal political system, death of important individuals or astrological phenomena were all considered to be possible reasons. The cultural significance and time period between such events however remains unknown. Illustrations by Nola Davis