How many Mayan pyramids were built and where they built?

The Maya civilization, which flourished in Mesoamerica from around 2600 BC to 1500 AD, constructed numerous pyramids throughout their cultural history. While the exact number of Mayan pyramids is difficult to determine due to ongoing archaeological discoveries, it is estimated that there are around 400 known pyramid structures attributed to the Maya civilization. These pyramids are distributed across various regions within Mesoamerica, primarily in present-day Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador.

Here are some of the notable Mayan pyramids and their locations:

1. Great Pyramid of Cholula: Located in Cholula, Puebla, Mexico, the Great Pyramid of Cholula is the largest pyramid in the world by volume. It was built by the ancient Nahua people, but later used and modified by the Maya.

2. Temple of Kukulcán (El Castillo): Situated in Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico, the Temple of Kukulcán is one of the most famous Mayan pyramids. It is dedicated to the Mayan feathered serpent god Kukulcán.

3. Tikal Temple I (Temple of the Grand Jaguar): Found in Tikal National Park, Guatemala, Temple I is the tallest Mayan pyramid, reaching a height of approximately 154 feet (47 meters). It was built during the Late Classic period and served as a tomb for the ruler Ah Cacao.

4. Palenque Red Queen's Pyramid: Located in Palenque, Chiapas, Mexico, the Red Queen's Pyramid contains the tomb of Queen Tz'akbu Ajaw. It is known for its striking red paint and rich interior decoration, including stucco reliefs and a carved stone sarcophagus.

5. Uxmal Temple of the Magician: Situated in Uxmal, Yucatan, Mexico, the Temple of the Magician is one of the best-preserved Mayan pyramids. It features a unique oval base and intricate carvings depicting mythical creatures.

6. Copán Main Temple (Structure 16): Located in Copán, Honduras, the Main Temple is the most massive structure at the Copán archaeological site. It was built in the 9th century AD and is known for its elaborate hieroglyphic inscriptions.

7. Caracol Observatory: Found in Chichen Itza, Yucatan, Mexico, the Caracol is a circular pyramid that served as an astronomical observatory. It contains various architectural features that align with celestial events and aided the Maya in tracking time and predicting astronomical phenomena.

8. Takalik Abaj Pyramid E-VII-Sub: Situated in Takalik Abaj, Guatemala, Pyramid E-VII-Sub is the oldest known Mayan pyramid, dating back to around 1000 BC. It is significant for providing insights into the early stages of Mayan civilization.

These are just a few examples of the many Mayan pyramids that exist across the region. Each pyramid holds cultural, historical, and archaeological importance, offering valuable insights into the architectural prowess, religious beliefs, and astronomical knowledge of the ancient Maya civilization.