Palenque Archaeological Site

Palenque Magical Town

Fort

What is Palenque Magical Town?

Palenque is a Magical Town known primarily for the Palenque Archaeological Site, which was an ancient Mayan city. The Palenque Archaeological Site is considered one of the most impressive and significant sites of Mayan culture.

Palenque is also known for its natural beauty as it is located in the tropical rainforest of Chiapas, which provides visitors with the opportunity to explore lush landscapes and enjoy the flora and fauna of the region.

Letter of Colors of Palenque

Palenque has been considered one of the Magical Towns of Mexico since 2015.

Engraving Palenque Magical Town

history

What is the history of Palenque?

Palenque was founded by Friar Pedro Lorenzo, in close proximity to the archaeological site of the same name, in 1567. The Dominican friar integrated the town with many dispersed Chol families in the Lacandon Jungle.

It is known that the native people referred to Palenque as Otulún, a word of Chol origin that means “enclosed or fortified site.”

Otulún

Why visit Palenque Magical Town?

Visiting Palenque as a Magical Town gives you the opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty, culture, gastronomy, and history of the region. It is a perfect place to immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Chiapas and explore the ancient Mayan civilization while delighting in the charms of a picturesque town.

The Palenque Archaeological Site was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1987.

Weather

Between 77 °F and 86 °F

State

Chiapas

Foundation

1567

Map

Where is Palenque located?

Palenque, as a Magical Town, is located in the state of Chiapas, in southeastern Mexico. It is approximately 87 miles north of the city of San Cristóbal de las Casas and about 137 miles southeast of Villahermosa, the capital of the state of Tabasco.

Palenque on the Mayan Train Route

Photo gallery

Mayan head in Palenque Pueblo Mágico
Alberto Ruz Lhuillier Museum in Palenque Pueblo Mágico
archaeological site of Palenque
Tianguis Crafts Palenque Chiapas
Santo Domingo de Guzmán Parish in Palenque Pueblo Mágico
Lacanjá Ecotourism Center in Palenque Chiapas

videos

What are the Festivities of Palenque Magical Town?

Palenque is known for several festivities and celebrations that reflect its rich culture and traditions.

Mundo Maya International Expo in Palenque Magical Town

Mayan World International Expo

It is a cultural and tourist event that takes place from April 6th to 9th. Its objective is to promote and showcase the cultural, historical, and natural wealth of the Maya region. A variety of activities and events related to Maya culture, archaeology, art, music, gastronomy, and tourism are organized.

Santo Domingo de Guzmán Fair in Palenque Magical Town

Fair of Santo Domingo de Guzmán

It is a religious and cultural celebration in honor of the patron saint Santo Domingo de Guzmán. This festivity takes place on August 4th, which is dedicated to Santo Domingo. During the fair, various activities are carried out that combine religious and cultural elements.

Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe in Palenque Chiapas

Day of the Virgin of Guadalupe

It is one of the most important celebrations in Mexico, taking place on December 12th every year. In Palenque, Chiapas, this religious festivity is celebrated with great devotion and fervor. Various activities such as singing “Las Mañanitas,” processions, fairs, and cultural events are held during this time.

Tourist attractions

What to do in Palenque Magical Town?

Palenque, Chiapas, offers a variety of tourist attractions, some of the main ones being:

Lak Puj Kul Textile Museum in Palenque

Lak Puj Kul Textile Museum

Catazajá Lagoons

Catazajá Lagoons

Agua Azul waterfalls in Palenque

Blue waterfall

Palenque Archaeological Site

Palenque Archaeological Site

Misol Ha Waterfall in Palenque Chiapas

Misol Ha Waterfall

Aluxes Ecopark in Palenque Chiapas

Aluxes Ecopark

Roberto Barrios Waterfall

Roberto Barrios Waterfall

Agua Clara Spa in Palenque

Agua Clara Spa

Tours and Nature

Highlighted Activities in Palenque

In Palenque, it is recommended to enjoy nature and visit the Palenque Archaeological Site.

Palenque Archaeological Site

Palenque Archaeological Site

Visit the Waterfalls in Palenque Chiapas

Visit the Waterfalls

Tourist Camps in Palenque Magical Town

Tourist Camps

Relax

Beach in Palenque Pueblo Magico

Palenque is located in a mountainous region, far from the coast, therefore, there are no beaches in its immediate vicinity.

Archaeological wealth

Archaeological Sites in Palenque

Palenque is a fascinating archaeological destination in itself, but there are also other nearby archaeological sites that you can visit to complement your experience. Some of the main archaeological sites near Palenque are:

Yaxchilán Archaeological Site

Yaxchilán

Toniná Archaeological Site

Toniná

Bonampak Archaeological Site

Bonampak

What tours are available in Palenque?

Some Travel Agencies in Palenque Magical Town

Palenque Magico Travel Agency

Palenque Magico Travel Agency

LOCATION

Chiapas Tourism Consultant in Palenque Magical Town

 Consultora Turística de Chiapas

LOCATION

Where to stay in Palenque, Chiapas?

Some Hotels in Palenque

Maya Tulipanes Hotel in Palenque Magical Town

Maya Tulipanes Hotel

LOCATION

Tulijá Palenque Hotel

Tulijá Palenque Hotel

LOCATION

Nututun Palenque Hotel

Nututun Palenque Hotel

LOCATION

Where to eat in Palenque?

Some Restaurants in Palenque Pueblo Mágico

Don Manuel Restaurant in Palenque Magical Town

Don Manuel Restaurant

LOCATION

El Lago Restaurant in Palenque Magical Town

El Lago Restaurant

LOCATION

Palenque Waterfall

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Palenque on the Mayan Train Route

In summary, Palenque is a destination that combines the rich history of the Maya civilization, the natural beauty of the tropical jungle, and the authenticity of a magical town. It captivates visitors with its unique history, culture, nature, and traditions.