Mexico

Sak tzʼi (Maya site)

Maya city and palace complex, Upper Usumacinta region

Location

Explore the Map

Historical Context

About

Sak tzʼi is an archaeological site of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization. It is located in the municipality of Ocosingo of the Mexican state of Chiapas. The ruins are notable for having the earliest urban remains in the Upper Usumacinta region, as well as a unique ancient theater for elite use. The ancient identity of the site is subject to debate.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history

First architectural evidence

c. 150 BCE

Early residential complex

c. 50 BCE–50 CE

Emergence of urban settlement

after c. 50 BCE

Capture of Kʼabʼ Chan Teʼ

628 CE

Regional military events

641 CE

Reign of Aj Sak Maax

c. 750s–772 CE

Captures recorded at Bonampak

787 CE

Attack after 789

after 789 CE

Fine-paste ceramics phase

c. 800–850 CE

Shift to council government and turmoil

c. 850 CE

Late inscription mention

864 CE

Abandonment

c. 1000–1100 CE

First modern report

1975

Renewed visits and community clearing

1994–2001

Formal excavations begun

2003

Restoration efforts

2008

Capital revealed in backyard discovery

2020

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Public and Civic Structures

PlazasTheatresBallcourtsAdministrative Buildings
category

Religious and Ritual Structures

TemplesAltarsCeremonial PlatformsStelae
category

Artistic and Decorative Features

InscriptionsReliefsMonuments
category

Domestic and Habitation Structures

PalacesCitiesHouses
category

Environmental and Natural Features

Artificial MoundsLandscaped Earthworks
Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

Explore

Plan Your Visit

Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information

Reference

Details

Country

Mexico

Coordinates

16.79° N, -91.28° E