Religious site
Temple of the Sun (Palenque)
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The Temple of the Sun is part of Palenque's Group of the Cross, built during the reign of Pakal's son, K'inich Kan B'alam II. The temple sits atop a low pyramid and features a delicate roof comb that still stands. Inside, a sanctuary chamber holds a large stone panel depicting the sun god receiving offerings from the king. The carving is exceptionally detailed, showing the god emerging from a double-headed serpent. The temple's design aligns with solar events, emphasizing its celestial purpose. Visitors can admire the reliefs up close and appreciate the interplay of light and shadow on the sculpted surfaces.
Don't miss
- Study the central panel showing the sun god and the king's ritual offering
- Admire the intact roof comb with its geometric and symbolic motifs
- Notice the solar alignment markers on the temple's structure
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Temple of the Sun (Palenque)
You can visit Temple of the Sun (Palenque) on your own. A guide is worth it for the history and detail that is easy to walk past, and a tour can combine it with nearby sights.
More attractions in Palenque