the central patio is the inner courtyard of the plaza, enclosed by the surrounding buildings. it has a surface area of and inclined slightly so as to drain runoff rainwater from the northeast corner, towards the temple iii reservoir. the seven temples are aligned along the east side of the patio. it is bordered on the south by a palace complex. on the north side it is enclosed by a number of structures that formed a triple ballcourt. the west side of the central patio is formed by the rear of an e-group complex.