Copán in Honduras

In its history was ruled by 16 kings for about four centuries from 426 to 820, during the Classic Period. It has intriguing episodes in Quirigua and relations with various Mayan cities of the time, even in Mexico.

Copan has a history linked to Quirigua in Guatemala a site located just 50 miles approximate in a straight line.

The current geographic prevented urbanization movement directly betweenthe two cities, so it is necessary to reach Copan from the border of ElFlorido on one side of Chiquimula.

The site shows throughthe ruins that the city was occupied by 16 kings who ruled for about 4centuries, from 426 to 820, during the Classic period.

Valley of Kings

The dynasty began with King Yax Kuk Mo (Quetzal Macaw), followed by hisdescendants, leading to develop a model of monarchy that guaranteed themaintenance of cosmic order, by his own deification.

Allinformation is recorded on the monuments erected, on stelae,sculptures, built to commemorate the monarch and the HieroglyphicStairway, America's largest carved originally containing more than250 thousand units.

Itis suspected that Copan maintained trade relations with other Mayacenters of the time, even to have trade with the Aztecs of highlandMexico.

The dynasty ended with the death of Yax Pac (First Dawn).

Archaeologists relate the fall of this city, with population growth,deforestation and soil erosion, skeletal remains have been found  theybelong to the later years of the city, which shows that its residentswere already suffering from disease and malnutrition.

The site is divided into two main areas: the Acropolis and Great Plaza.

On a mound 30 meters high the Acropolis is located in a buildingcomplex consisting mostly of temples with long steps, same as it isbelieved served as platforms for special events.

The facades were carved with zoomorphic and human figures as well as astronomical and mythological elements.

To the west of the Acropolis is called Altar Q, this building is veryimportant as it shows in its four side walls the names and figures ofthe 16 rulers of the dynasty.

Copan archaeological studieshave discovered a tunnel system beneath the site. There are more than 4kilometers below the acropolis, has now enabled some of the same andcan be visited.

Conejo 18, The King of the Arts

Conejo 18 is considered the King of the Arts, due to it's contribution to theplace making sculpture reliefs almost round. It was the thirteenthruler of the site and featured many performances recorded at the site.

Paris of the Mayan world

Copan has been enjoyed for many years for its magnificent ruins, being named as a UNESCO world heritage.

For its level of preservation, architectural detail and above all byits artistic beauty, today it is usually referred to as the Copan Ruins:Paris of the Mayan world in Central America.
 

FromHonduras: Copan Ruinas is located 438 kilometers from Tegucigalpa or184 kilometers starting from San Pedro Sula and the trip is done in 2hours ½ asphalt road.

To get from Guatemala You must visit the department of Chiquimula.

A few minutes from Chiquimula Esquipulas you will find a turn to the leftthat leads to Camotan to reach the border, "El Florido".

Fromthere you take this course without deviating from the road to reach thefrontier. Once you are on the side of Honduras, it is 10 miles leading to thearchaeological site.

Not a particularly long trip and can be completed in a day round trip from Guatemala City.