Explore the Map
Sak tzʼi (Maya site)
16.7850° N, -91.2799° E
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.
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
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Public and Civic Structures
Religious and Ritual Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Environmental and Natural Features
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
More Sites in Mexico
La Campana (archaeological site)
Prehispanic ceremonial center near Colima, Mexico
Cañada de la Virgen
Otomi ceremonial complex, 6th–11th century AD
La Mojarra
Epi-Olmec archaeological site in Veracruz, occupied c. 300 BCE–1000 CE
Candelaria Cave
Mortuary cave with 13th-century hunter-gatherer burials, Mexico
Tetzcoco (altepetl)
Acolhua city-state (Late Postclassic) in Mexico
Castillo de Teayo (Mesoamerican site)
Huastec pyramid and temple in Veracruz, Mexico
