Kʼinich Kan Bahlam II facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kʼinich Kan Bahlam II |
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Kʼinich Kan Bahlam II on tablet from the Temple XVII.
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| King of Palenque | |
| Reign | 10 January 684 – 20 February 702 |
| Predecessor | Kʼinich Janaabʼ Pakal |
| Successor | Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II |
| Born | 23 May 635 Palenque |
| Died | 20 February 702 (aged 66) Palenque |
| Burial | Palenque |
| Father | Kʼinich Janaabʼ Pakal |
| Mother | Lady Tzʼakbu Ajaw of Tortuguero |
| Religion | Maya religion |
| Signature |  |
Kʼinich Kan Bahlam II, also known as Chan Bahlum II, was a powerful king of the ancient Maya city-state of Palenque. He was born on May 23, 635, and ruled until his death on February 20, 702. Palenque was located in what is now Chiapas, Mexico. He became king in January 684, following his famous father, Kʼinich Janaabʼ Pakal.
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The Reign of Kʼinich Kan Bahlam II
Kʼinich Kan Bahlam II took the throne several months after his father's passing. His father, Kʼinich Janaabʼ Pakal, was a very important ruler. Kʼinich Kan Bahlam II continued his father's grand plans. These plans aimed to make Palenque even more beautiful. He wanted to fill it with amazing art and buildings.
Building Palenque's Legacy
One of Kʼinich Kan Bahlam II's biggest achievements was the Temple of the Cross Complex. This impressive group of buildings became a central part of Palenque. It showed the skill and artistry of the Maya people. He added many beautiful structures to the city.
His reign was a time of great artistic growth. Many monuments and texts are linked to him. These include the tablets and decorations of the Temples of the Cross, Sun, and Foliated Cross. They also include parts of the Temple of the Inscriptions. These structures tell us a lot about his time as king.
Family and Succession
Kʼinich Kan Bahlam II was the son of Kʼinich Janaabʼ Pakal and Lady Tzʼakbu Ajaw. After his death, his younger brother became the next king. This brother was named Kʼinich Kʼan Joy Chitam II. Another brother, Tiwol Chan Mat, was also likely part of the royal family.
Important Monuments and Art
The city of Palenque still holds many clues about Kʼinich Kan Bahlam II. These ancient sites help us understand his rule. They show the incredible talent of the Maya artists and builders.
Key Structures from His Time
Some of the most important works from his era include:
- Tablets and decorations from the Temples of the Cross, Sun, and Foliated Cross.
- Tablets and the front of the Temple of the Inscriptions.
- The Temple 17 Panel.
- The Death's Head carving.
- The Jonuta Panel.
- The Stela from the Temple of the Cross.
These pieces of art and architecture are still studied today. They help historians learn about the Maya civilization. They show how important Kʼinich Kan Bahlam II was to Palenque.
See also
In Spanish: K'inich Kan Balam II para niños
