Chiapas is one of the most ecologically diverse of the Mexican states. Here the ancient Maya constructed some of the most elegant cities during the Classic period.
1. Palenque
Atasta Flores Esquivel
Palenque is one of the most famous Maya sites. It is located at the foothills of the Chiapas highlands, facing the Tabasco plains. Among its most important buildings are: the Palace, the Temple of the Inscriptions, the Cross Group, the Temple of the Count, along with the Ball Court and several elite residential complexes
2. Yaxchilan
Mattia di Paolo
Yaxchilán is a gorgeous Maya site located on top of a horseshoe meander on the riverbank of the Usumacinta river. It is famous for its elegant architecture and stone panels depicting scenes of royal life
3. Bonampak
Mattia di Paolo
The small Maya site of Bonampak is located in the valley of the Lacanha river and is best known for its murals depicting scenes of courtly life and battles.
4. Toniná
Toniná is located in the eastern highland of Chiapas. The site core is occupied by a large Acropolis, supporting several temples, a large plaza with a sunken ball court, and palaces. other elements characteristics of Tonina are stone altars and statues of bounded captives
5. Other smaller Maya sites in Chiapas are:
- Lacanha
- La Mar
- El Cayo
- Xoc
- Chinkultic
- Tenam Puent
- Tenam Rosario
- Santa Elena Poco-Uinic
- Lagartero