.bk J05
.fl S709jW1.j
.fd introduction and strategy for J5 excavation
.fn edited by gB and fAB on
.ei jW
.ed S709
.rd S709
.ri jW

--i On the basis of our initial excavations on the temple complex, it was assumed that its general form was symmetrical and that it formed an oval, walled in stone and sitting above an open plaza, with the temple at the center and possibly with several points of access.  Based on the excavations of the last two seasons and on an extensive geophysical survey, we have modified our hypothesis.  Among other things, the formal boundary of the temple complex now seems to be confined to the southwest.  The eastern part may well end at the staircase.  Excavations in unit J1 in the MZ19 season (2006-Q) revealed that, at its western extremity, the revetment wall made a sharp turn to the north.  Furhermore the wall in that vicinity seemed to comprise a double line of stones, separated by about 5 meters with possibly a paving of large flat stones between them.  This season, we wish to follow this wall to the north, to determine the nature of the relationship of the components of that part of the wall system, and to determine the physical links, if any, between the temple complex and the Tupkish palace.  The geomagnetic survey data show there may be a northern boundary to the plaza in this general location, possibly through a link with a substantial building, which may be associated with the palace.  Sharing importance with excavation will be the production of a completed field portion of the global record by the close of the study season in late September.
-sg To accomplish these goals we will incorporate and build upon that portion of unit J1 that contains the double wall.  First, we will clean and document the previously excavated portion of the revetment wall.  Next, we will open two new loci, k23 and k24, north of the west face of the outer of the two lines of stone.  There, at a depth of about 150cm below the surface we expect to be able to follow this face which runs roughly north northwest.  The geophysical survey indicates the prescence of a structure to the west within the range of the new loci.  If we find the turn we will follow it to the west with additional loci in that direction. In order to define the nature of the wall system as it turns north we will remove some isolated pillars of soil which partially cover it in the portion previously exposed as a part of the J1 excavation.  If necessary to further explore the construction, we will open a second line of loci running north and located to the east of k23 and k24.  In order to accomplish the publishing goal, we will station an experienced assistant in the house on a rotating basis to process objects and enter and process data and photographs as they are recorded in the field.