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Chiapa de Corzo (Mesoamerican site)
16.7028° N, -93.0040° E
About
Chiapa de Corzo is an archaeological site of pre-Columbian Mesoamerica located near the small town of Chiapa de Corzo, Chiapas. It rose to prominence around 700-500 BC, during the Middle Formative period, becoming a regional center. By then, its public precinct had reached 18-20 ha in size, with total settlement approaching 70 ha. Because of its position near the Grijalva River in the Central Depression of Chiapas, it controlled the local trade routes to the Soconusco region, and other centers in the area such as Mirador (not to be confused with El Mirador), Santa Rosa, and La Libertad. The modern township of Chiapa de Corzo, Chiapas, founded in Colonial times and after which the site was named, is nearby.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Oldest pyramidal tomb discovered
April 2010 (discovery); tomb dated c. 700 BCE (2,700 years old)
Middle Formative Olmec axe deposit
2008 (discovery); deposit dated c. 700 BCE
Initial occupation
c. 1200 BCE
Mounds and plazas established
c. 700 BCE
Epi-Olmec script sherd
c. 300 BCE
Guanacaste phase regional role
starting c. 100 BCE
Oldest Long Count calendar inscription
December 36 BCE (Long Count reference)
Abandonment and Chiapanec presence
Late Classic period
Palace construction and ritual destruction
first century CE (construction); a couple centuries later (destruction)
Istmo phase decline
AD 300–400
Modern damage and conservation steps
late 1960s (Nestlé plant); December 8, 2009 (INAH opened portion)
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Miscellaneous Features
Public and Civic Structures
Burial and Funerary Structures
Religious and Ritual Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Environmental and Natural Features
Astronomical and Timekeeping Structures
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
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