SITE MUSEUM
Considered one of the most notable archaeological museums in the Mayan area, it brings together around 234 pieces from different areas of Palenque. These works attest with particular clarity to the aesthetic expressions generated by the dynastic power of the ancient city, while also serving as sources of information about the religious beliefs, ritual practices, and forms of political organization prevailing in Palenque society. From the delicate clay figurines to the large limestone sculptures, the pieces of the Site Museum reveal the sensitivity and vigor of the local artistic tradition, whose influence radiated toward other Mayan cities, such as those located in the Usumacinta region.
Themes covered in the museum
The museum is divided into six halls: Hall 1. Welcome to Palenque. Introduction. Hall 2. The South Acropolis. Hall 3. The Group of the Crosses. Hall 4. The Abode of the Dead / The Game for Regeneration. Hall 5. The Palace / The Royal Court. Hall 6. The Residential Units.
Hall 1 provides essential information about the historical and cultural relevance of Palenque, as well as a broad overview of the site's urban features and main periods of development. Hall 2 features magnificent sculptures from temples XVIII and XIX (South Acropolis) and sets the stage for visitors to become familiar with the glyphic representations and narratives created during the reign of K’inich Ahkal Mo’ Nahb’ (721-circa 736).
Hall 3 illustrates the religious beliefs and customs of Palenque, bringing together glyphic panels, offerings, and incense holders from the Group of the Crosses, the ceremonial heart of Palenque. Hall 4 offers a glimpse into funerary practices and conceptions, as it features ceramic pieces and ornaments found in burial chambers, notably the collection of masks, necklaces, and pectorals from the tombs of the temples of La Calavera and the Red Queen.
Hall 5 includes monuments carved with palace scenes and glyphic inscriptions referring to the birth, enthronement, and rituals of several rulers, as well as stucco sculptures and vessels of the local elite. Hall 6 contains figurines, incense holders, sculptures, household goods, and other objects from the residential areas surrounding the architectural core of Palenque, offering a view of the daily life of the city's common population.
Available services
The following areas are available: temporary exhibitions, visitor services, cafeteria, and handicrafts shop.
Themes covered in the museum
The museum is divided into six halls: Hall 1. Welcome to Palenque. Introduction. Hall 2. The South Acropolis. Hall 3. The Group of the Crosses. Hall 4. The Abode of the Dead / The Game for Regeneration. Hall 5. The Palace / The Royal Court. Hall 6. The Residential Units.
Hall 1 provides essential information about the historical and cultural relevance of Palenque, as well as a broad overview of the site's urban features and main periods of development. Hall 2 features magnificent sculptures from temples XVIII and XIX (South Acropolis) and sets the stage for visitors to become familiar with the glyphic representations and narratives created during the reign of K’inich Ahkal Mo’ Nahb’ (721-circa 736).
Hall 3 illustrates the religious beliefs and customs of Palenque, bringing together glyphic panels, offerings, and incense holders from the Group of the Crosses, the ceremonial heart of Palenque. Hall 4 offers a glimpse into funerary practices and conceptions, as it features ceramic pieces and ornaments found in burial chambers, notably the collection of masks, necklaces, and pectorals from the tombs of the temples of La Calavera and the Red Queen.
Hall 5 includes monuments carved with palace scenes and glyphic inscriptions referring to the birth, enthronement, and rituals of several rulers, as well as stucco sculptures and vessels of the local elite. Hall 6 contains figurines, incense holders, sculptures, household goods, and other objects from the residential areas surrounding the architectural core of Palenque, offering a view of the daily life of the city's common population.
Available services
The following areas are available: temporary exhibitions, visitor services, cafeteria, and handicrafts shop.
