Articles about San Cristobal de las Casas
Archaeology

Palenque, Palaces surrouded by lush greenry

by: Travel by México

Palenque, Palaces surrouded by lush greenry, San Cristobal de las Casas
Archaeology

Palenque, Palaces surrouded by lush greenry

by: Travel by México

Palenque dating from 400 A.D., is very big with over 200 architectural structures and covers an areas of 2.5 kilometers.

It was a city dedicated to agriculture and commerce, and it became one of the most important of mesoamerica.

It includes The Palace with its tower at the end, The Temples of the Cross, being the Foliada Cross Temple, The Sun Temple, and of course, The Temple of the Inscriptions.  And much is to say about King Pakal’s tomb (discovered in 1952), the ball court, and the aqueduct, among other buildings.

The inscriptions found etched in stone on one building in specific, describe the splendor of Palenque: The Temple of Inscriptions.  Here is also found the relic of the Lord Shield II.

What is known as the ’Palace’ is composed of complex and diverse areas; patios, hallways, stairways, galleries, windows, tables of information, sculptures and a tower.

We could describe each of the buildings, but there is nothing compared to seeing them. So begin your adventure with a good sun block, mosquito repellent, and a lot of energy.  You are sure to enjoy it.

The museum is also worth a visit. Tombstones, drawings, pottery, and jewelry guide us through this Mayan worlds that so intrigues. Surrounding, you will find the Palenque National Park. 6 kilometers to the east of the archeological area and the park, is the town of Palenque, that offers all of the necessary visitor services.  Also close by are the waterfalls of Aqua Azul and Misol-Ha.

Cost- $48 pesos including museum visit. Free for seniors, students, professors, and children.  There is an extra fee to videotape.

Open Monday to Sunday from 8:00 to 4:45