List of kings of Copán facts for kids
Copán was a powerful ancient city-state of the Maya people. It is located in what is now western Honduras. This article lists the kings who ruled Copán after 426 AD. This was when a new leader, K'inich Yax K'uk' Mo', changed the city.
The Kings of Ancient Copán
Copán was ruled by the Yax Kuk Mo dynasty. This royal family started in 426 AD. They had help from the powerful city of Teotihuacan and King Sihyaj Chan K'awiil II of Tikal. This dynasty ruled Copán for about 400 years, from the 5th to the 9th century.
The Yax Kuk Mo Dynasty
The Yax Kuk Mo dynasty built many amazing structures in Copán. These include large buildings, pyramids, statues, temples, altars, and ball courts. Many of these ancient works are still standing today. Visitors can explore them and learn about the Maya past. The name Yax Kuk Mo means "First Quetzal Macaw."
| Name | Ruled | Image |
|---|---|---|
| K'inich Yax K'uk' Mo' | 426 - c. 437 |  |
| K'inich Popol Hol | c. 437 | |
| Name unknown | c. 455 | |
| Ku Ix | c. 465 | |
| Name unknown | c. 476 | |
| Muyal Jol | c. 485 | |
| B'alam Nehn | 504–544 | |
| Wil Ohl K'inich | 532–551 | |
| Sak-Lu | 551–553 | |
| Tzi-B'alam | 553–578 | |
| K'ak' Chan Yopaat | 578–628 |  |
| Chan Imix K'awiil | 628–695 | |
| Uaxaclajuun Ub'aah K'awiil | 695–738 |  |
| K'ak' Joplaj Chan K'awiil | 738–749 | |
| K'ak' Yipyaj Chan K'awiil | 749–763 |  |
| Yax Pasaj Chan Yopaat | 763–after 810 | |
| Ukit Took | 822 |
The End of Copán
After centuries of being a powerful city, Copán slowly declined. The city was mostly abandoned around the year 827 AD. The reasons for its decline are still debated by historians.
