Tikal, covers such a large area -- almost 16 square kilometers -- and due to the number of buildings -- about 3,000 -- and the size and majesty of its main buildings, it is considering just about the most important archeological center. Some specialist believe that its population numbered 100,000, at the height of its glory.

A map shows, aside from the central portion and its building complexes, hundred os small structures and enormous reservoirs fir rainwater storage some of which are still in use. Also, indicated are some causeways and avenue that lined the various buildings; today, these roads carry the names of the people who explored them, such as the Mendez Causeway, Maler Causeway, Maudslay Causeway and Tozzer Causeway.