Hieroglyphic Stairway

Escalinata de los Jeroglíficos

Monumental staircase featuring the longest known Mayan inscription with over 1,800 glyphs on 62 steps. It documents the dynastic history and lineage of the city's rulers from the Classic Maya civilization. Ler mais…

Entrada

Walking on the stairs prohibited since 1975 for preservation

Arian Zwegers from Brussels, Belgium / cc-by-2.0

Peter Andersen (talk) / cc-by-2.5

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The monument is a massive staircase located on Temple 26, also identified as Structure 10L-26. Built between 706 and 756 AD, the structure features sixty-two steps covered in the most extensive glyphic writing found in Mesoamerica. This inscription consists of approximately 2,200 hieroglyphs, making it the longest known text from the Classic Maya civilization.

The glyphs provide a detailed official chronicle of the city's rulers, documenting their dynastic history and lineage. This work is considered a primary example of Maya monumental writing and historical record-keeping. The site is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its architectural and archaeological significance.

A protective canvas currently covers the structure to shield the intricate carvings from environmental elements. This preservation effort helps maintain the integrity of the inscriptions on the stone steps.