Presentated at:

Maya at the Playa 2011, September 2011

Temple B at Rio Bec is significant in Maya history because its design serves as the basis for the Rio Bec architectural style. Discovered in 1912 by Dr. Raymond Merwin and Clarence Hay and subsequently "lost" in Mayan history, Temple B was the subject of a 60-year search until it was rediscovered in 1973 by Hugh and Suzanne Johnston, documentary filmmakers. Their research, assisted by Princeton art historian Gillett Griffin, was documented in the film "Mystery of the Maya" and was broadcast nationally on PBS. Not shown for many years until now, a third of this film involves locating Temple B, with the remainder documenting Maya research of the time. In addition to the viewing of this historic film, an update on the history of Temple B and its restoration will be presented.