Attraction Guide: Copan Ruins, Copan Ruinas, Honduras

Copan Ruins Guide

Copan Ruins: The Athens of the Mayan World Guide

The Copan Ruins, located in western Honduras, are a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most important Mayan archaeological sites in Central America. Renowned for their intricate stelae, elaborate hieroglyphic stairway, and sophisticated art, Copan offers a captivating journey into the heart of Mayan civilization. Often referred to as the "Athens of the Mayan world," Copan was a major center of learning, art, and culture. Copan flourished during the Classic period (250-900 AD), reaching its peak under the rule of the powerful king 18 Rabbit (also known as Uaxaclajuun Ub'aah K'awiil). The city was a major center of astronomical observation, mathematics, and hieroglyphic writing. The famous Hieroglyphic Stairway, one of the longest Mayan texts ever discovered, provides invaluable insights into the history and genealogy of Copan's rulers. The city's decline began in the 9th century, and it was eventually abandoned. Visitors can explore the Great Plaza, home to numerous intricately carved stelae depicting Copan's rulers. The Hieroglyphic Stairway is a must-see, although access is restricted to protect the fragile carvings. The Copan Museum houses a collection of artifacts recovered from the site, including sculptures, pottery, and jade ornaments. The nearby Las Sepulturas residential complex offers a glimpse into the lives of Copan's elite. While in Copan Ruinas, be sure to sample traditional Honduran cuisine, such as baleadas (flour tortillas filled with beans, cheese, and other ingredients) and sopa de caracol (conch soup).