Kʼahkʼ Ujol Kʼinich I facts for kids

Kʼahkʼ Ujol Kʼinich I was an important ancient Maya king. His name means "Fire-headed Sun God." He ruled the city of Caracol, which is located in modern-day Belize. He was named after Kinich Ahau, the Maya Sun God. People also knew him as Ruler I or Smoking Skull I. He reigned around the year 470 AD.

Who Was Kʼahkʼ Ujol Kʼinich I?

Kʼahkʼ Ujol Kʼinich I was an ajaw, which means a ruler or king in the Maya language. He led the powerful city of Caracol. This city was a major center of the Maya civilization. It is famous for its many ancient buildings and monuments.

His Family and Successors

Kʼahkʼ Ujol Kʼinich I was likely married to a noblewoman known as the Lady of Xultun. His son was probably Yajaw Teʼ Kʼinich I. Yajaw Teʼ Kʼinich I later became king after his father. This shows how leadership was passed down through families in the Maya world.

How He Is Remembered

Even though Kʼahkʼ Ujol Kʼinich I ruled a long time ago, his name was still important later on. His name appears in family records from the 500s AD. This means he was seen as a respected ancestor. On a monument called Caracol Stela 6, a later ruler named Knot Ajaw is shown wearing Kʼahkʼ Ujol Kʼinich's head as a belt ornament. This shows how much he was honored and remembered by future kings.