Palenque

Palenque [1] is the all-time favorite ruin of many travelers, thanks to its elegant architecture, intricate carvings, and superlative museum [2]. Much of what archaeologists know about the Maya calendar, hieroglyphics, and astronomy emerged from studies conducted here.

Toniná [3] is a terrific hillside ruin, featuring a labyrinthine palace and temples, morbid stucco friezes, and impressive views from its high-reaching summit. The site museum here is outstanding.