Chiapas - 2005
Yaxchilan
The South Acropolis
Edifice XL
Enrique saying a prayer on the steps of Edifice XL in Yaxchilan

Edifice XL (Roman numeral “40”)  is my favorite temple in the South Acropolis.  I love the proportions and style of this temple.  Great energy and a great place to just hang out and enjoy the jungle.


According to YAXCHILAN: The Design Of A Ceremonial City by Carolyn E. Tate, Copyright 1992, ISBN 0-292-77041-3, Page 234, the Mayans probably built Edifice XL (“40”) 2nd.  Edifice XL (“40”) sits on 2 terraces.  Altar XIV (“14”) sat on the upper terrace, directly in front of the central doorway.  Stela XI (“11”) sat in the center of the middle terrace, along with an uncarved altar.  Stela XII (“12”) accompanied by Altar XIII (“13”) sat on the left of Stela XI, and Stela XIII (“13”) accompanied by Altar XV (“15”) sat on the right.  Edifice XL (“40”) also has 3 doorways centered in the front facade.  The temple has 1 room inside, which contained a mural.

The left back of Edifice XL, seen from Edifice XLI
Stela XI on the front steps of Edifice XL