Although the marimba is considered an autochthonous instrument from Chiapas, it is also true that its origin dates back to Africa. Historians have found similarities between the marimba and African xylophones, suggesting that the marimba may have reached the Americas with European colonizers through the African slave trade.

In Chiapas, the marimba has become a symbol of the state's cultural identity. It is a central element in festivities and social events, and has been recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The marimba is also an artistic and musical expression highly appreciated by the people of Chiapas, and has been used to create works of popular, folkloric, and traditional music.

The marimba has been a very important instrument in the history of music in Chiapas. It is believed that it arrived in the state in the 16th century, with the arrival of the Franciscan friars who established the first music school in Chiapas. Since then, the marimba has been integrated into the daily life of Chiapas, and has been used to accompany religious ceremonies, festivals, and cultural events.

There are various theories regarding the origin of the word "marimba". Some sources indicate that it is attributed to the name of a town in Angola, while others suggest that it refers to a goddess called "marimba" among the Zulu. The word has also been used by various African groups to designate certain variants of the xylophone.
Fernando Ortiz, a renowned ethnomusicologist, points out that the term "marimba" or "malimba" is very common throughout Bantu Africa, and that the root "imba" -of Bantu origin- means "song" and is used to name xylophones African traditional.

In Chiapas, the marimba has evolved and adopted its own style that differentiates it from the marimbas of other regions. At present, some terms evocative of its original African character stand out, such as "pumpos", which are the resonance boxes that are made from gourds (also known as gourds), and "hookah", which is the hole in which place the "fabric" on said soundboards.

The name "marimba" has been used not only in America, but also in Europe and the United States to refer to a wide variety of xylophones, including concert models. In fact, in 1722 the Italian Jesuit Filippo Bonanni, in his work "Gabinetto Armonico", describes a variety of African instruments, among which the name marimba appears to designate both xylophones and sanzas.

In summary, the marimba is an instrument with an African origin that has been adopted by the Chiapas culture and has become a symbol of Mexican popular music. Its name comes from various theories, but all agree that it has roots in African culture. The marimba has evolved and adopted its own characteristics in Chiapas.

To preserve the cultural richness of the marimba and ensure its legacy for future generations, it is important to take steps to protect and preserve its use and practice. This includes the promotion of musical education and the training of new musicians, as well as the protection and conservation of the wood forests necessary for the production of marimbas. It is also important to support the promotion and dissemination of marimba music nationally and internationally to make Chiapas culture and identity known.