Jade Sky facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Jade Sky |
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| Ajaw | |
Stela K of Quiriguá, representing the monarch.
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| King of Quiriguá | |
| Reign | c.800 - 810 |
| Predecessor | Sky Xul |
| Born | Quiriguá |
| Died | c.810 Quiriguá |
| Father | Sky Xul (possibly) |
| Religion | Maya religion |
Jade Sky was an important ruler, or Ajaw, of the ancient Maya city called Quiriguá. He ruled this city-state in what is now Guatemala for about ten years, from around 800 to 810 CE.
Jade Sky followed another ruler named Sky Xul. Some historians believe Sky Xul might have been the son of a very famous king, K'ak' Tiliw Chan Yopaat.
The Last King of Quiriguá
Jade Sky is known as the last recorded king of Quiriguá. After his rule, the city's power began to fade. This was a time when many great Maya cities were facing challenges.
Even though Quiriguá was becoming less powerful, Jade Sky still made his mark. He ordered the building of two very large structures. These were part of the city's main area, known as the acropolis. The acropolis was like the city's center, where important buildings stood.
What Was Quiriguá?
Quiriguá was a significant city in the Maya world. It was famous for its amazing stone carvings. These carvings, called stelae, were tall stone monuments. They often showed kings and told stories about their lives and important events.
The city was located near a river, which helped it trade with other Maya cities. Quiriguá's power grew over time, especially when it defeated a larger rival city, Copán.
The End of an Era
The period when Jade Sky ruled was near the end of the Classic Maya period. Many large Maya cities began to decline around this time. Scientists are still studying why this happened.
Jade Sky's reign marks the final chapter of Quiriguá's recorded history as a powerful city-state. Even though his time as king was short, he left behind impressive buildings. These structures remind us of the city's final efforts to maintain its greatness.
