How did the Maya building evolve beyond the Olmec? (1 point)
• The Maya used sandstone, not limestone.
• The Maya built larger cities and stepped pyramids.
• The Maya created colossal heads for their gods.
• The Maya did not build homes for the elite in their cities.
The statement "The Maya built larger cities and stepped pyramids" is correct. The Maya civilization developed larger and more advanced cities compared to the Olmec, and they constructed stepped pyramids, also known as temples, as a significant architectural feature in their cities.
To determine how the Maya building evolved beyond the Olmec, we can compare the options provided and analyze the differences:
1. The Maya used sandstone, not limestone.
This statement does not directly explain how Maya buildings evolved beyond the Olmec. It only provides information about the materials used, which can vary for different reasons.
2. The Maya built larger cities and stepped pyramids.
This statement suggests that the Maya built larger cities and stepped pyramids, indicating a progression from the Olmec civilization. The size of the cities and the use of stepped pyramids demonstrate architectural advancements and a likely increase in population and complexity of urban planning.
3. The Maya created colossal heads for their gods.
While the creation of colossal heads may have been a significant cultural and artistic development, it does not specifically address how Maya building evolved beyond the Olmec.
4. The Maya did not build homes for the elite in their cities.
This statement implies that the Maya did not prioritize building separate homes for the elite within their cities. This may signify a different social structure and distribution of wealth compared to the Olmec civilization, but it does not directly address architectural advancements or how Maya building evolved beyond the Olmec.
Based on the provided options, the statement that best explains how Maya building evolved beyond the Olmec is that the Maya built larger cities and stepped pyramids.
The correct answer is:
• The Maya built larger cities and stepped pyramids.
The Maya building style evolved beyond the Olmec in several ways. One significant difference is that the Maya built larger cities compared to the Olmec. These cities were more expansive and more densely populated. Additionally, the Maya constructed stepped pyramids, which were not a common architectural feature among the Olmec. These pyramids served as ceremonial structures and were used for religious ceremonies and rituals. Other features of Maya architecture include intricate carvings and decorations on the buildings, creating a unique and distinctive style.