Bʼalam Nehn facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Bahlam Nehn |
|
|---|---|
| Ajaw | |
| King of Copán | |
| Reign | 504-544 |
| Predecessor | Muyal Jol |
| Successor | Wil Ohl Kʼinich |
| Born | 5th century Copán |
| Died | 544 Copán |
| Issue | Wil Ohl Kʼinich Tzi-Bʼalam |
| Father | Muyal Jol |
| Religion | Maya religion |
Bʼalam Nehn was an important ruler of the ancient Maya city of Copán. He was the seventh king in the new royal family, which was started by Kʼinich Yax Kʼukʼ Moʼ. People sometimes called Bʼalam Nehn by his nicknames, like "Jaguar Mirror" or "Waterlily-Jaguar." He was the first king of Copán to clearly state his place in the line of rulers. He proudly announced that he was the seventh king after Kʼinich Yax Kʼukʼ Moʼ.
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Who Was Bʼalam Nehn?
Bʼalam Nehn became the ruler of Copán around 504 AD. We know this from an ancient stone monument called Stela 15. He ruled for about 40 years, until 544 AD. His reign was a time of important building projects in Copán.
A King Mentioned Far Away
Bʼalam Nehn is special because his name appears in ancient writings outside of Copán. His name was found on Stela 16 in Caracol, another Maya city in Belize. This stone monument dates back to 534 AD. It is rare for a Copán king to be mentioned in texts from such a distant city.
Building Projects in Copán
During his time as king, Bʼalam Nehn started many big building projects. He focused on the Acropolis, which was the main royal area of Copán. He built new, important structures right on top of an older palace. This shows how he expanded and improved the city's main buildings.
Legacy of Bʼalam Nehn
Bʼalam Nehn's rule helped to strengthen the royal family of Copán. By clearly stating his place as the seventh king, he made the line of rulers more official. His building projects also left a lasting mark on the city's architecture. He was followed by his son, Wil Ohl Kʼinich, who continued the dynasty.
