An Unexplored Realm in the Heartland of the Southern Gulf ... - Famsi

Mound Structures 78, 79, 82, and 110
Structure 78, a 6 m high earthen pyramid, dominates the Olmec Throne Complex.
Structure 79 is a lower but broader based, truncated pyramid. These two structures
effectively divide the entire complex into three, relatively comparable segments; Plaza I,
Plaza II, and the western section containing the standing water feature. Structures 82 and
110 are low 1 m mounds that, from their surface appearance, do not offer any overt
indication as to their function or significance. Nevertheless, their specific placement,
along with Structures 78 and 79, and the seep spring immediately west of the complex,
suggests a significant alignment. As previously noted, the longitudinal medial axis
formed by the centers of these four structures also effectively bisects the entire complex
and basal platform. This axis line is oriented to approximately 72º east of magnetic north.
This estimated alignment is within three degrees of the line-of-site proposed for the
throne personage.
Plazas I and II
Plaza I is located in the ea stern portion of the Olmec Throne Complex (see
Figure 6.5), and may be an area of privileged, elite activities. The plaza is encircled by a
series of variously sized and shaped structures that effectively isolate the courtyard and
restrict entry to its interior. The northeast portion of this plaza was the location of the
altar’s ritual deposition, associated Offerings I and II, and contained the hypothesized
ceremonial water retention pond. Structure 79, which forms the western boundary of the
plaza, has a unique pedestal-like projection at its northeast corner (see Figure 6.5). Its 2 m
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