We have already talked a little about the wonderful Palenque on a tour in Chiapas, what to see and what to do. If you want to know more about its archaeological ruins or its admired waterfalls, read on.

Brief history of Palenque

The city was founded by Fray Pedro Lorenzo in 1567. It has been a National Park since 1981 and was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987.

Temperatures are warm most of the year and heavy rains fall during the summer. Some of its main attractions are the numerous waterfalls and the archaeological ruins near the city.

The ruins of Palenque

Palenque is located in the state of Chiapas, in the middle of a lush jungle with hot and humid temperatures. They are close to the city center, only 8 kilometers away. It was here that the most accurate calendar was invented: that of the Maya. In addition to Palenque, another of the most visited archaeological sites in Mexico is Calakmul.

The archaeological zone of Palenque

The pre-Hispanic city has an area of 16 kilometers and has more than 200 sculptures, constructions and monuments. Highlights include the Temple of the Inscriptions, the Great Palace, Temple XI, the temples of the Foliated Cross, the sun and the popular ball game.

In the archaeological zone we will also find the national park, areas of great vegetation in which to practice sports such as trekking or hiking, admire the different species of animals and observe different types of flowers and trees.

Temple of the inscriptions

One of the most important buildings in the precinct: built in 675 B.C. as a funerary monument. It is a stepped pyramid decorated with hieroglyphic inscriptions narrating the stories of the ruler Pakal.

The Great Palace

In front of the Temple of the inscriptions we will find the Great Palace, also with an important staircase leading to a gallery of several pillars, courtyards and sculptures.

The pyramids or temples of Palenque

They are made up of the Temple of the Cross, the Temple of the Sun and the Temple of the Foliated Cross. All of them in the shape of a pyramid.

The Ball Game

The courts for playing ball, one of the most popular pastimes of the time. Almost a ritual, a game that represented the cycle of life, astrology and was very important in the Mayan culture.

Roberto Barrios Waterfalls

With colors ranging from green and blue depending on the fall, the waterfalls of Roberto Barrios are spectacular. At 14 kilometers from the city center, it will be a worthwhile excursion.

Agua Azul Waterfalls

They are a series of waterfalls formed by the Yaxhá River. With a characteristic turquoise blue color, this is the reason for its name and great popularity. Nearby you can observe the evergreen vegetation and animals such as howler monkeys and porcupines.

Alternate destination: Cancun

Have you thought about treating yourself to a mini-vacation in one of the most incredible places in Mexico? Indulge yourself in the all-inclusive Cancun hotels of the Oasis hotel chain to disconnect from everyday life and relax.