ArchaeologyPalenque Archeological RuinsSan Cristobal de las Casas

Located in the heart of the Chiapas Jungle, Palenque is the second most widely known archeological site in Mexico after Teotihuacan.  It is located in the town of Santo Domingo of Palenque, just 126 miles from San Cristobal de las Casas, 186 miles from Tuxtla Gutierrez, and 90 miles from Villahermosa.

The Palenque Archeological Site and the National Park that belongs to the area, were declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987.

Recognized for its innovative artistic style and the high quality of its architecture and sculptures, this ancient Mayan city reached its peak between 600 and 900 AD.

Those were the golden days of Pakal and his successors Kam Balam II, Kam Hoy Chitam II, Ahkal Mo T’san-Nab III, and  K’uk ’Balam II.

Among its most prominent buildings are the Great Plaza, the Palace, the Temple of Inscriptions, the Ball Court, the Northern Group and the Temple of the Count.

Hours: Open daily from 9:00 to 5:00. Admission: $ 51 pesos.

(Photo: provided by the State of Chiapas Secretary of Tourism for the promotion of the entity).