Sihyaj Chan Kʼawiil II facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sihyaj Chan Kʼawiil II |
|
|---|---|
Sihyaj Chan Kʼawiil II's portrait on Stela 31.
|
|
| Ajaw of Tikal | |
| Reign | 26 November 411 - 3 February 456 |
| Predecessor | Yax Nuun Ahiin I |
| Successor | Kʼan Chitam |
| Died | 3 February 456 Tikal |
| Burial | Temple 33 (Burial 48) |
| Spouse | Lady Ahiin |
| Issue | Kʼan Chitam, King of Tikal Six Sky, King of Río Azul |
| Father | Yax Nuun Ahiin I |
| Mother | Lady Kʼinich |
| Religion | Maya religion |
| Signature |  |
Sihyaj Chan Kʼawiil II was an important ruler, also known as Storm Sky or Manikin Cleft Sky. He was an ajaw, which means a king or lord, of the ancient Maya city of Tikal. Tikal was a very powerful city in what is now Guatemala.
He became king on November 26, 411, and ruled for many years until his death on February 3, 456. Sihyaj Chan Kʼawiil II was the son of the previous king, Yax Nuun Ahiin I, and his mother was Lady Kʼinich. He was also the grandson of a famous ruler called Spearthrower Owl.
Contents
Who Was King Storm Sky?
Sihyaj Chan Kʼawiil II was a key figure in the history of Tikal. His long reign helped Tikal remain a strong and important city. He continued the work of his father and grandfather in leading the Maya people.
His Family and Legacy
Sihyaj Chan Kʼawiil II came from a powerful royal family. His father, Yax Nuun Ahiin I, had also been a king of Tikal. His grandfather, Spearthrower Owl, was a very influential ruler.
Sihyaj Chan Kʼawiil II had at least two children. His son, Kʼan Chitam, later became king of Tikal. Another child, Six Sky, became the ruler of the city of Río Azul. This shows how his family spread its influence.
Important Monuments of His Reign
During Sihyaj Chan Kʼawiil II's time as king, several important stone monuments were created. These monuments, called stelae, are like tall, carved stone tablets. They often tell stories about the kings and important events.
Stela 31: A Key Story
One of the most famous monuments is Stela 31. This stela was put up during his rule. It tells about the death of his grandfather, Spearthrower Owl, which happened in 439. Stela 31 also shows a portrait of Sihyaj Chan Kʼawiil II himself.
Other Stelae
Other stelae linked to Sihyaj Chan Kʼawiil II include Stela 1. Stela 28 might also be connected to him. These monuments help us learn about the history and beliefs of the ancient Maya.
His Burial Place
When Sihyaj Chan Kʼawiil II died, he was buried in a special place. His tomb was found beneath Tikal Temple 33. This temple was a large pyramid built for his burial. Finding his tomb helps archaeologists understand more about Maya burial customs and their kings.
