How many years are encompassed in a Katun?

A Katun is a period of 20 years, particularly in the context of the Maya calendar system. In this system, time is divided into cycles that include Tun (360 days), Winal (20 days), and Katun. Each Katun, therefore, represents a significant length of time, reflecting the cultural and historical significance the Maya placed on cyclical time.

In Maya civilization, the Katun was important for tracking historical events and phases of governance. For example, it was vital for creating historical annals and monumental inscriptions that documented the reigns of kings and major events across the centuries. Understanding the concept of the Katun is crucial for interpreting Maya history and their calendrical system accurately.