Copán, Maya archaeological site in Copán Ruinas, Honduras.
Copán is an archaeological site in Copán Ruinas, Honduras, ranking among the most important remains of Maya civilization. The site includes several large plazas, temples with stepped pyramids, a ball court, and residential areas expanded over centuries.
A ruler named K'inich Yax K'uk' Mo' founded a dynasty in 426 that governed for over four centuries. The city experienced its golden age between the 6th and 8th centuries before being abandoned in the 9th century.
The city reached its greatest height under the rule of 18 Rabbit, who governed during the 8th century and commissioned numerous carved stelae featuring his portrait. His face appears on several preserved sculptures throughout the complex, giving visitors insight into royal Maya representation.
Walking through the main zone takes about three hours and involves uneven terrain with some steep sections. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and bring water, as most of the route has little shade.
Beneath the main temple lies an older structure called Rosalila, discovered in 1989, which still shows traces of its original red paint from 571. These paint remains are exceptional for Maya archaeology, as organic pigments rarely survive centuries.
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