Maya Archaeological Sites

Chiapas preserves the legacy of the Maya and Zoque civilizations through diverse archaeological zones. Palenque features the iconic Temple of the Inscriptions and the tomb of Pakal the Great, while Toniná boasts one of the tallest human-made pyramids in Mesoamerica. The list includes Izapa, a historical link between Olmec and Maya cultures, and Chinkultic, known for its dramatic cliffside setting overlooking a cenote. From the megalithic structures of Iglesia Vieja to the ball courts of Malpasito, these sites showcase advanced urban planning and ceremonial architecture set within lush tropical landscapes.

Palenque

Palenque, also anciently known in the Itza Language as Lakamhaʼ, was a Maya city state in southern Mexico that perished in the 8th century.

Toniná

Tonina is a pre-Columbian archaeological site and ruined city of the Maya civilization located in what is now the Mexican state of Chiapas,…

Temple of the Inscriptions

The Temple of the Inscriptions is the largest Mesoamerican stepped pyramid structure at the pre-Columbian Maya civilization site of…

Chinkultic

Chinkultic, sometimes Chincultic, is a moderate-size archeological ruin in the state of Chiapas, Mexico.

Izapa

Izapa is a very large pre-Columbian archaeological site located in the Mexican state of Chiapas; it is best known for its occupation during…

Chiapa de Corzo

Chiapa de Corzo is an archaeological site of pre-Columbian Mesoamerica located near the small town of Chiapa de Corzo, Chiapas.

Malpasito

A Zoque archaeological site featuring a ball court, ceremonial plazas, and over 100 petroglyphs. It represents a significant pre-Hispanic settlement on the borders of Chiapas and Tabasco.

Tenam Puente

Tenam Puente is an archaeological site of the Maya culture located in the Balum Canan valley, in the municipality of La Trinitaria, 12…

Zona arqueológica de Iglesia Vieja o Los Horcones

A pre-Hispanic Zoque site characterized by megalithic architecture. It features massive stone blocks used in the construction of terraces, ramps, and ceremonial platforms overlooking the Pacific coastal plain.