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This elevated royal complex houses Copan's most significant temples and dynastic tombs.
The Acropolis forms the core of the ancient Maya capital. It served as the central hub for Copan's royal dynasty from the 5th to the 9th centuries.
Here you will find the site's most detailed stonework, including the longest known Maya text in the world. Accessing the underground excavation tunnels requires an additional $15 USD ticket.
20 minsLongest Maya text
This massive structure features 63 steps carved with over 2,000 glyphs. It stands as the longest known Maya text in the world. A protective tarp covers the stairs to prevent erosion, but you can clearly view the carvings from the base.
20 mins16 kings depicted
Temple 16 is a central pyramid that houses the tomb of the city's founder. At its base sits Altar Q, a famous carved block depicting 16 consecutive kings of the Copan dynasty.
30 mins$15 USD
Archaeologists dug this network of tunnels to study the buried layers of the Acropolis. Inside, you can see the original Rosalila temple. This area requires a separate $15 USD ticket. If you are claustrophobic, skip the tunnels and view the full-size replica in the museum instead.
