Bonampak

Bonampak which means "Painted Walls" formerly known as Ak'e and in its vicinity as Usiij Witz, "Cerro del Zopilote", is an archaeological site of the Mayan culture in the state of Chiapas, Mexico. The site that lies near a tributary of the Usumacinta River and is about 21 kilometers south of Yaxchilán, under which Bonampak was subordinate. While the site is not overly impressive in terms of spatial or architectural size (Sylvanus Morley ranked Mayan cities in terms of size and political importance, Bonampak being a fourth-rate city) it owes its fame to the three-dimensional murals. completely painted rooms located inside Structure 1 (Temple of the Murals). The construction of the site structure dates to the Late Classic Period. (580 to 800 AD) In addition to being among the best-preserved Maya murals, they are noteworthy for overturning the early assumption that the Maya were a peaceful culture (a position long argued by Carnegie Washington Archaeologist, Sir John Eric Sidney Thompson), the murals clearly showing the craft of warfare and human sacrifice. It is usually said that the archaeological zone was discovered by Giles Healey and Mateo Bolívar, between April and May 1946, who were informed by the Lacandon indigenous people, arriving several times in the area, when they were going to perform worship in the city buildings. . However, as in many other cases, the indigenous people already knew the location of the site, and the discovery is now attributed to two of them: José Pepe Chambor and Acasio Chan. The Bonampak archaeological zone is located in the Mexican state of Chiapas, in the region known as the Selva Lacandona. This ancient Mayan city is located in an area that is difficult to access, surrounded by tropical jungle and mountains, making it an isolated and mysterious place. To get to Bonampak, you can take a flight to the city of Tuxtla Gutiérrez or Palenque and then a car or bus ride to the nearby city of Yaxchilán. From there, a tour guide or boat can be hired for a trip up the Usumacinta River, followed by a hike through the jungle to reach Bonampak. Once you arrive in Bonampak, you will be able to explore this fascinating Mayan city and discover its rich history. The Bonampak Archaeological Zone features several impressive buildings, including the Temple of Paintings, which is famous for its well-preserved murals. Dating to the Late Classic period (around AD 790), these murals depict scenes of daily life, religious ceremonies, and warfare, and are considered some of the finest examples of Maya art in the world. In addition to the Temple of Paintings, other important buildings can also be found in Bonampak, such as the Group of Three Structures, which includes the Temple of the Skull, the Temple of War, and the Temple of the Rain God. Other important buildings include the Acropolis, the Main Plaza, and the Ball Court. The Bonampak Archaeological Zone is a must for any tourist interested in Mayan history and culture. In addition to the impressive architecture and art, the site offers a unique experience of exploring the rainforest, with walking trails and opportunities to observe wildlife. In summary, the Bonampak archaeological zone is an archaeological treasure located in the tropical jungle of Chiapas. Tourists can find impressive well-preserved Mayan buildings and murals, as well as a unique experience of exploring the rainforest. Without a doubt, Bonampak is a must-see destination for those seeking an exciting adventure and cultural immersion in the history of the Mayan civilization.