Zona Arqueológica Palenque | Palenque Archaeological Site

Palenque Archaeological Site

The Palenque Archaeological Site, located in the state of Chiapas, is one of the most enigmatic and spectacular destinations in the Mayan world.

Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Palenque offers visitors a unique window into the grandeur of this pre-Hispanic civilization.

With its majestic architecture, intricate sculptures, and jungle-like landscapes, it is a must-see for lovers of history and archaeology.

Thanks to the Mayan Train, it is now more accessible than ever, becoming a key destination for those wishing to explore southern Mexico.

Palenque History: The Rebirth of a Mayan City

Founded around 100 BC, Palenque flourished as one of the most important cities of the Mayan civilization during the 6th and 7th centuries AD.

During the reign of its most famous leader, King Pakal, Palenque became a cultural, political and religious center of great importance.

Despite having been mysteriously abandoned in the 9th century, archaeological investigations have revealed its grandeur.

Its temples, palaces and tombs decorated with reliefs tell us the story of a sophisticated people who left an invaluable legacy.

The Mayan Train Palenque Station facilitates access to this ancestral treasure, allowing more travelers to discover the wonders of this ancient Mayan city.

Main Monuments

When visiting Palenque, tourists can marvel at its most precious jewel: the Temple of the Inscriptions, where Pakal’s tomb is located, decorated with hieroglyphics that tell the story of the great king.

This temple, almost 27 meters high, is only the beginning of an archaeological adventure that also includes El Palacio, with its underground passages and magnificent patios, and the Group of Crosses, a series of ceremonial temples dedicated to the Mayan gods.

The views from these structures over the surrounding jungle make the trip to the Palenque Archaeological Site an unforgettable experience.

With the Mayan Train, access to this site is more comfortable, allowing travelers to enjoy these monuments without transportation complications.

Exploring Palenque: What to See and Do

Beyond its majestic temples, Palenque offers activities that allow visitors to connect with nature and Mayan culture.

Just a few minutes from the Palenque Archaeological Site is the Palenque National Park, a rainforest reserve home to howler monkeys, toucans, and a great diversity of fauna and flora.

Nature lovers can enjoy trails that guide them through waterfalls such as Misol-Ha and Agua Azul, ideal for relaxing after a day of cultural exploration.

In addition, the Palenque Site Museum offers an excellent opportunity to understand more about the daily life of the ancient Mayans.

The Mayan Train transports you to the Palenque Archaeological Site, but also connects with other tourist destinations, which will make this trip a complete experience.

The Impact of Palenque on Mayan Archaeology and Culture

The Palenque Archaeological Site is considered one of the most studied and important sites in Mesoamerican archaeology.

The discoveries made in this area have enriched knowledge about the Mayan civilization and have given rise to theories about its architecture, religion and governance.

The reliefs and texts found here have allowed experts to reconstruct the history of the city and its rulers, providing valuable information about the funerary and ritual practices of the Mayans.

This cultural wealth attracts thousands of tourists and scholars every year, and with the Mayan Train route, Palenque promises to be a reference point for archaeological tourism in southeastern Mexico.

Visit the Palenque Archaeological Site with the Mayan Train

With the Mayan Train, visiting Palenque is more accessible and enjoyable than ever.

This innovative means of transportation connects Palenque with other archaeological sites on the Yucatan Peninsula.

Traveling to the Palenque Archaeological Site on the Mayan Train is part of a unique tourist experience that highlights the beauty of the region, while enjoying unparalleled views and unprecedented comfort.

The Mayan Train positions Palenque as an essential stop for those who wish to explore the best of Mexico, facilitating access to a world-renowned archaeological site and its natural surroundings.

Don’t miss the opportunity to live a historical and cultural adventure that connects you directly to the heart of the Mayan civilization.

MORAL REFORMA
EL TIGRE

The Palenque archaeological site is open to the public every day from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm (last admission at 4:00 pm). The entrance fee is $90 MXN. Additionally, admission is free for children under 13, people over 60 with an INAPAM or INE credential, pensioners with official identification, people with disabilities, as well as students and teachers from national institutions with a valid credential. On Sundays, admission is free for Mexican citizens and foreign residents with immigration credentials.

Palenque was established in 1567 by Friar Pedro Lorenzo, some distance from the ancient ruins of the same name. The Dominican friar gathered together various Chol families living scattered throughout the Lacandon Jungle to form the community. It is known that the original inhabitants referred to Palenque as Otulún, a term in the Chol language meaning “fenced or fortified place.”

The Palenque ruins or Palenque Archaeological Site bear the same name as Palenque, and there are also Xupá and Finca Encanto.

Some of the most popular tourist attractions near the Palenque Archaeological Site are:

  • Pre-Hispanic City and National Park of Palenque
  • Misol-Ha waterfalls
  • Roberto Barrios Waterfalls
  • Palenque National Park
  • Aluxes Ecological Park
  • Site Museum
  • The Panchán
  • Textile Museum

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