THE MAUSOLEUM ARCHITECTURAL PROJECT: REINTERPRETING PALENQUE'S TEMPLE OF THE INSCRIPTIONS THROUGH 3D DATA-DRIVEN ARCHITECTURAL ANALYSIS

Abstract The Temple of the Inscriptions at Palenque, Mexico, is an outstanding example Classic Maya architecture erected in seventh century as funerary building for ruler K'inich Janab Pakal. For decades, scholars have speculated on its construction sequence and potential existence hidden rooms either side Pakal's mortuary chamber. This article aims to advance understanding Temple's architectural context light new 3D data. After reviewing application drone-based photogrammetry terrestrial Light Detection Ranging area, we argue that these techniques are capable enhancing analysis showing this structure was part a larger project, encompassing adjacent XIII, connecting stepped platform. Our findings demonstrate basal platforms XIII were contemporaneously design their chambers follows tripartite layout identified Palenque's elite associated practices. We conclude three buildings mausoleum which initiated by Pakal reshape site-core enshrine ruling family's power ancestors.