About Palenque, Mexico

In the midst of an extraordinary setting of exuberant, endlessly green tropical jungle stands one of the most important and spectacular Mayan cities of ancient Mexico: Palenque.



Palenque is one of the most frequently visited archaeological zones in the country. Apart from exploring its buildings, visitors can also take photographs, carry out research or purchase local handicrafts.



For many years, Palenque was covered by dense jungle, until the 19th century when it was discovered by adventurers and artists, such as Guillermo Dupaix, Count Waldeck, John L. Stephens, Frederick Catherwood, Désiré Charnay and Alfred P. Maudslay, whose reports made the world aware of the greatness of this city.



This imposing ceremonial center reached its peak during the Classic period (600-700 AD), when its major buildings were constructed. During this time, it was the capital of a province that comprised the lowlands bordering on the Usumacinta and Grijalva rivers. The set of buildings that can be seen today are only a fraction of what the city once was. Palenque¡¯s collapse is still a mystery. It is thought to have been due to the rebellion of an oppressed people, since there are signs that it was intentionally destroyed.



The archaeological zone lies within Palenque National Park. Its climate is warm and humid, with altitudes of less than 350 m. The vegetation is mainly tropical forest which supports a wide range of fauna; camping facilities are also available. The site can be reached via the Villahermosa-Chetumal Highway, taking the turn-off in Catazajá to Palenque.



Eight kilometers outside the archaeological zone stands the city of Santo Domingo de Palenque, which provides access to the site. Hotels, restaurants and other tourist services are available. This city is within easy reach of places of great natural beauty, as well as other archaeological zones.



The city is located 299 km outside Tuxtla Gutiérrez, the state capital, and 220 km outside San Cristobal de las Casas.