Build a Mayan (or lizard) Temple

Be sure and watch the ending when a cricket gets sacrificed.

This fake rock structure could be considered a beginner level project based on the simplicity of its design. Building a model mayan temple consists largely in part of creating rectangles of various shapes and sizes.

These rectangles get smaller as the Temple gets taller. If you're building this Mayan temple for a pet lizard, you will want to hollow it out so your pet can have a hiding place.

This structure is built with the same techniques as all the other fake rock projects on this website.

I start by going to the hardware store and getting some polystyrene (Styrofoam). I also get roughly 5 pounds of non-sanded grout. It is the grout that will actually make your structure appear as if it is made out of stone.

Almost any glue will work in pasting together your polystyrene pieces, but stronger glues such as liquid nails have the benefit of you being able to progress faster in your project. The video above on how to build a Mayan temple shows each piece being glued together -strategically in some cases- so that you can easily hollow it out for a possible pet lizard.

You will want to apply at least three layers of non-sanded grout. You can mix acrylic paints or cement color into the last layer of grout to provide the shade of color you want. Or you can simply paint the structure after the last layer of grout dries.

If you are building this Mayan temple for a pet lizard you will need to seal it with a non-toxic sealant. For wet environment lizards I have used a sealant called Shields All; it is a non-toxic acrylic all surface sealer.

For dry environment lizards such as a bearded dragon, you can use Mod Podge all surface sealant.

Whether you're making this for a pet lizard or not, sealing it is probably a good idea. It makes the structure stronger and will make it last longer. The last stage consists of sprinkling fine grain colored sand on the structure as the last layer of sealant dries. The sand will make the structure stronger, as well as diminish the shiny look that the sealant leaves. It will also give traction -in climbing- for your pet lizard.

Remember, these structures are not quite as strong as they look. Move slowly when taking them in and out of a cage.

Be sure and watch the above video on how to build a Mayan temple. Also, check out the other model building projects on this website such as: How to build a Castle.