BOOK IN STONE
Topped with its distinctive
Maya-style roof comb, the
Temple of the Inscriptions was
built in the late seventh century.
Its inscriptions, including the
second longest Maya glyphic
text ever found, provide
historians with a source of rich
information on Palenque.Fifth century a.d.
Palenque’s dynasty
of rulers (ajaws) is
established in a.d. 431.
The city is still a relatively
small regional player.
Sixth century
Instability takes hold. Late
in the century, incursions
by forces from the Maya
city of Calakmul devastate
Palenque.Seventh century
Under Pakal the Great,
Palenque becomes a major
regional power. The Great
Palace and Temple of the
Inscriptions are built.Eighth century
Palenque’s power
begins to wane. It will
be abandoned, and the
jungle will enshroud the
city.CEM CANBAY/AGE FOTOSTOCK