Toniná
Zona ArqueolóGica (INAH) · Ocosingo, Chiapas
A Maya city built up a hillside in seven great terraces near Ocosingo, in the highlands of Chiapas, whose acropolis rises about 70 metres and ranks among the tallest structures in the Maya world. Tonina was a warrior state: in 711 it captured the king of Palenque and carved him bound. Its stucco Mural of the Four Eras shows a skeletal death lord holding a severed head. It also holds one of the last Long Count dates carved in the Maya lowlands, from 909, the end of the Classic world recorded in stone. The site museum, with its freestanding sculpture of captives, is worth seeing first. The climb is long and steep, with high steps and no railings, and there is almost no shade, so go early. It is nearly empty, about two hours from San Cristobal de las Casas, and makes a strong stop on the road to Palenque. Chiapas highways are sometimes blocked, so ask locally on the morning, check current state travel advice, and avoid driving after dark.
Zona Arqueológica de Toniná, Ocosingo, Ocosingo, Chiapas, 29950, Mexico
The archaeological zone and museum keep INAH daytime hours; the museum closes Mondays. INAH Sunday free admission applies to Mexican nationals and residents only. ⚠ THE ACROPOLIS IS STEEP, UNRAILED AND UNSHADED - go early. ⚠ CHIAPAS ROAD BLOCKADES AFFECT THIS ROUTE - ask on the morning; do not drive after dark. ⚠ HOURS AND PRICES NOT VERIFIED FOR THIS FILE.