Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Busiljá Falls
Yaxchilán
This beautiful Mayan site enjoys a spectacular setting on the Mexican shore of the Río
Usumacinta, on a densely forested horseshoeshaped bend on the river. It was unquestion-
ably the most important Usumacinta site in Mayan times. At the height of its power, in the
late 7th century A.D., it came to dominate much of the river's trade and formed powerful
alliances with neighboring sites as far away as Tikal and Palenque. Sprawled throughout
the site's raised banks are several temples, plazas, and ball courts. Several palaces can be
found along lower parts of the city.
Among the site's most impressive features is the presence of superb artwork adorning
several structures, including doorlintels andstucco carvings onroofcombs.Manyofthese
have been removed to museums around the world. A long staircase leads from the plaza to
Temple 33,
Yaxchilán's most impressive structure, featuring impressive carved lintels un-
der its doorways.
The ruins are open 8 A.M. to 5 P.M. daily. Admission costs $3. You can pitch a tent at
a campground overlooking the river if you wish to spend the night. The easiest way to get
