One of the most amazing archaeological discoveries of the 20th century was the tomb of Pakal, the most famous ancient Maya king known today.

Learn more about Pakal and Palenque

Pakal ruled over Palenque (in modern-day Chiapas, Mexico) in the 7th century, and he had his tomb constructed beneath the Temple of the Inscriptions. Inside the tomb was his massive sarcophagus.

Among the many amazing things discovered inside the tomb, Pakal's death mask is surely one of the most remarkable! It's made of pieces of bright green jade. Pakal remains eternally youthful and also transforms into the Maize God!

Main artwork:

1. Mask of Pakal, c. 683 CE, jadeite, shell, and obsidian from the tomb of K'inich Janaab' Pakal, Palenque, Chiapas, Mexico (National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City)

National Learning Standards

Explores Mesoamerican and North American Indigenous societies using art and architecture as primary sources, linking culture, geography, and governance.

NCSS

Culture (1), Time, Continuity, and Change (2), Power, Authority, and Governance (6)

C3

D1.1.6-8: Explain how a question represents key ideas in the field.

D2.His.1.6-8: Analyze connections among events and developments.

D2.Geo.4.6-8: Explain how cultural patterns and economic decisions influence environments.

D2.Civ.4.6-8: Explain powers and limits of government.

D3.1.6-8: Gather relevant information from multiple sources.

ELA

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.1: Cite specific textual evidence.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.2: Determine central ideas.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.6-8.7: Integrate visual information.

World History

NSS-WH.5-12.4 ERA 4: EXPANDING ZONES OF EXCHANGE AND ENCOUNTER, 300-1000 CE