Interestingly, most people think the word “Palenque” is Mayan but in actuality, it is a Spanish word that means fence or palisade, which comes from the name of a nearby town.  Some historians believe this area was actually called Na Chan Kan, which translates to “city of snakes” but that cannot be confirmed. 

This particular site is relatively old having hits its peak from 300 to 800 AD during the Mayan Classic period.  While there are many ruins in Central America, the Palenque Mayan ruins have been written and talked about more than any others.  Some people consider this a lost city, and considering it is located amidst rivers, waterfalls, and the jungle that borders the Lacondon Forest, it is easy to see why the comparison. 

As you visit the area of the Palenque Mayan ruins, you will still come across native Indians who to this day, still create and then sell handcrafted bows and arrows.  What makes the trip so interesting is that you can quickly spot the Palenque Indians by the long hair and white, shift-like clothing. 

Because the Palenque Mayan ruins are in an isolated area, you will be alone most of the trip.  The temperatures are hot, the humidity high, and the sky cast with clouds.  Although getting to these ruins does require a little time, the trip is well worth the effort.  You can get there by taking a special excursion plane, ADP bus, or via highway.  Many people choose to fly into Mexico City where they take a plane to Villahermosa, followed by a road trip to the ruins. 

Keep in mind that if you are expecting to see ruins like others in Mexico, you will be surprised.  One of the first things you will notice is the amazing carvings.  However, the astounding architecture of the palace is what grabs your attention.  Then, there is a beautiful, four-story tower and although climbing to the top is not permitted, it is still wonderful to look at and imagine the ancient days when the tower was used. 

Another fascinating aspect of the Palenque Mayan ruins is that the structures include multiple inscriptions that reveal valuable information about the rulers.  For example, the inscriptions reveal that the first king ruled starting in 993 BC and after him, all other rulers were deemed god-like. 

Additionally, many of the rulers had what they called “divine attributes”, which included an enlarged skull and clubfoot, thought to be the result of interbreeding.  One of the inscriptions tells the story of Chan-Bahlum, born with six fingers on his left hand and six toes on each of his feet.  In addition, there are wonderful sculptures at the Palenque Mayan ruins, which themselves tell a story.  For example, one such sculpture depicts mutilation.

When visiting, it is highly recommend you take time to climb down into the Temple of Inscriptions, which is the largest of the temples.  Once inside, you will be able to see the Tomb of Pacal but to view this tomb, be prepared to climb the 67 steps to the top and then back down.  While physically challenging, the trip is worth every step.  The only caution is that the steps are commonly slippery because of the lime.  Additionally, the temperature and humidity is quite intense so you want to dress appropriately. 

Once inside the tomb, you can visit the red painted tomb and see the unbelievable sarcophagus lid, which is massive and thereby, too large to remove.  Many guides tell people that the red paint inside the tomb is actually poison – the story continues that people who have tried to steal any of the treasures die. 

If you love adventure and exploration, then the Palenque Mayan ruins are a wonderful choice.  As you wind through the jungle, making your way toward the ruins, you will begin to see some of the structures as they peak out between the trees.  You can even swim in the pools by the waterfall and walk through a museum where you can purchase artifacts to take home.  Although some of the ruins, inscriptions, and carvings are in disrepair, this is a magnificent place to visit.