Palenque

Palenque, a site in Chiapas, Mexico famous for the ruins of a Mayan city amidst a lush green backdrop, still exudes the pristine wonder as when it was founded by its early discoverers. It was named Palenque by Spanish explorers to mean “fortification.” The Mayan city was actually called Otolum by the Chol Maya, which means “land with strong houses.” It is one of the most significant Mayan archaeological sites today, valued for its architecture, roof combs, sculptures, and bas-relief carvings.

The Palace is one of the important structures found with the Palenque ruins. Its unique four-story tower has been kept intact. Likewise, connected building and courtyards reveal impressive bas-relief carvings and sculptures.

The Temple of Inscriptions, on the other hand, houses the second longest glyphic text found so far in Mayan studies and archaeology. The temple was founded for K’inich Janaab’ Pakal, as a funerary monument. This dates back to 675 AD. A hidden passageway from the temple’s back room leads to Pakal’s carved sarcophagus and material belongings that were supposed to accompany him in his death.

The Temples of the Cross group is another relevant set of ruins found within the Palenque site. Here, temples are set on top of step pyramids. Supposedly, this symbolized the tree of creation in Mayan mythology.

The Mayan ruins of Palenque have several other curious temples and remnants, such as Temples XIX and XXI. These continue to baffle both scholars and archaeology and history enthusiasts.

Travelers to Palenque require a valid passport and visa. For American citizens, visas can be procured at their entry points. Typically, visas are good for up to 180 days. Palenque is relatively safer than the more congested cities of Mexico. However, basic precautions should still be practiced. Flashy jewelries are no-nos. It is good to travel to Palenque all year round, although the downpours from June to October are best avoided.