Comalcalco, Archaeological site in Comalcalco, Mexico

Comalcalco is an archaeological site in the town of the same name in Tabasco state, containing temples, residential structures, and open plazas. The buildings stand on a raised platform and are arranged along a central axis.

The site existed by the 2nd century BCE, and its surviving buildings date to the Late Classic period, roughly 550–900 CE, when the city covered over 7 km². Its ruling family had dynastic ties to the last rulers of Palenque. Around 900 the city was abandoned and fell into ruin until Désiré Charnay reached it in 1880.

Bricks found across the complex display engraved patterns featuring animal figures, human forms, and geometric motifs. These decorations likely served as craftsmen's marks or as ritual symbols during construction work.

Access is from Federal Highway 187 toward Paraíso, roughly two kilometers from the town center. Sturdy footwear helps when walking the uneven paths between the structures.

The use of fired bricks was a response to the absence of limestone in the swampy coastal region. Crushed shells and oyster remains were mixed into the mortar to strengthen the joints.