Description: A stele is a stone or wooden slab, generally taller than wide, that is erected vertically and has been used since ancient times for various purposes. These monolithic structures are often decorated with inscriptions, reliefs, or symbols that convey information about historical events, commemorations, or even warnings. Steles can vary in size and shape, but their main characteristic is their verticality, which gives them a monumental character. They are often found in archaeological contexts, serving as witnesses to past civilizations and their beliefs, customs, and social organization. Their significance goes beyond being mere monuments; they are carriers of collective memory and reflect the culture of the societies that created them. In many cultures, steles have also been used as territorial markers or as elements of worship, making them objects of great historical and cultural relevance.
History: Steles have a long history dating back to ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Mesopotamians, and Mayans. In Egypt, steles were used to commemorate the dead and often bore hieroglyphic inscriptions. In Mesopotamia, steles were common for recording laws and treaties, such as the famous Stele of Hammurabi, dating back to around 1754 BC. In Mesoamerica, Mayan steles were used to record dynastic and ceremonial events, being an integral part of their architecture and art.
Uses: Steles have primarily been used as commemorative monuments, territorial markers, and historical records. In many cultures, they served to honor the dead, record significant events, or establish territorial boundaries. They were also used in religious contexts, as elements of worship or to commemorate military victories. Their function varied according to culture and historical period, but they were always intended to convey a lasting message.
Examples: Notable examples of steles include the Stele of Hammurabi in Mesopotamia, which establishes a legal code, and the Mayan steles at sites like Tikal and Copán, which document the dynastic history of their rulers. In Egypt, funerary steles were common in tombs, bearing inscriptions that ensured the deceased’s eternal life.
