Discover the Athens
of the Maya World

The pre-colombian Maya city of Copán is one of the most remarkable sites of ancient Mesoamerica. Believed to be home of a prosperous noble class, Copán is known for its portrait stelae, its hieroglyphic stairway, and a mesoamerican ballgame court, among other important and impressive structures.

Discovery

Discovered in 1570 by Diego García de Palacios and later re-discovered in 1838 by John Lloyd Stevens and Frederick Catherwood, Copán has attracted adventurers and archaeologists from every corner of the world. Catherwood's drawings of Copán's stelae (large stone slabs often depicting military, political, or genealogical themes and rulers) were a major contributor to revealing Copán's roots to the world, and excavation of this great plaza started shortly after.

It wasn't long before Harvard's Peabody Museum sent expeditions to Copán to research and unearth this long-forgotten civilization. They discovered impressive temples and stelae during their expeditions between 1891-1894. It was these expeditions that later caught the attention of the Carnegie Institution, which initiated a long-term excavation program in 1935. Since then, archaeologists have learned much about the Maya and their impressive (almost unbelievable) mathematical, scientific, agricultural, and military advancements.

Historical Background

Among the many Maya sites in mesoamerica, Copán ranks among the highest in importance thanks to the vast number of hieroglyphic texts that have given archaeologists significant insight into the ancient Maya culture. Despite being one of the smaller sites, Copán's sheer number of hieroglyphic writings strongly suggest it was the home of nobility and have heightened our understanding of the Maya's artistic, scientific, and military achievements.

The Copán dynasty comprised sixteen (16) rulers whose apex of power ranged from 400AD to 800AD. It was during its 12th ruler's reign (Smoke Imix) that Copán consolidated it's power and reached a population of over 27,000 people. The decline of this powerful nation happened over the following centuries and eventually the city of Copán was largely abandoned by the 13th century.

Take a Stroll Through History

Walking through Copán's ruins is a truly somber experience. There are three main areas that are open to the public. The main Acropolis and central park - which is considered the main religious and political center of the Copán dynasty; Las Sepulturas (the burials) - a residential complex where people of different social standings lived; and Los Sapos (the frogs) - the place where Maya women allegedly gave birth to their young.

For over 30 years Jorge Molanphy of Maya Tropic Tours has been taking people to Copán. He was there when many of the most important discoveries were made - and often, he was in the very tombs or tunnels where these discoveries took place alongside prominent archaeologists like William Fash and Ricardo Agurcia. His knowledge and passion for this ancient and lost civilization is astounding, and his love of sharing this knowledge with anyone willing to lend an ear is evident the moment you meet him.

For a truly unforgettable experience, give us a ring. And don't forget to bring your camera!