1. Urban Core: The urban center of Tikal covers roughly 16 square kilometers (6.2 square miles). This includes the iconic temples and palace complexes that are characteristic of the city.
2. Regional Influence: Tikal's influence extended over a much wider region, encompassing an area of approximately 1,200 square kilometers (463 square miles). This region includes outlying communities and smaller cities that were connected to Tikal through trade, politics, and cultural practices.
3. Tikal National Park: The ancient city of Tikal is currently located within the Tikal National Park, a protected area that spans approximately 576 square kilometers (222 square miles). The national park encompasses the main archaeological zone and surrounding forest areas, providing a buffer zone and preserving the historical and natural heritage of the region.
It's important to note that these measurements are approximate and may vary based on different sources and interpretations. The actual extent of Tikal's influence during its peak period is still a subject of research and discussion among archaeologists and historians.