This building is an example of the Puuc architectural style, characteristic of northern Yucatan and displayed with exceptional artistry in Uxmal. It owes its name to the row of small stylized turtles on the upper cornice, but its design is simple; based on well-cut, carefully placed facing stones, the smooth walls are supported on a base and the frieze is framed by three-part cornices that contain slender columns. The model recreates aspects of the construction process and reveals details of the technical solutions, the handling of materials, the organization of labor, and the participants involved in the construction and supervision of work.