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Wil Ohl Kʼinich facts for kids

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Wil Ohl K'inich
Ajaw
Copan altar Q.jpg
Portraits of Wil Ohl K'inich, Sak-Lu and Tzi-Bahlam on Altar Q
King of Copán
Reign 544-551
Predecessor B'alam Nehn
Successor Sak-Lu
Born 6th century
Copán
Died 551
Copán
Issue Sak-Lu
Father B'alam Nehn
Religion Maya religion

Wil Ohl Kʼinich was an important ruler, known as the eighth king of the ancient Maya city-state called Copán. He ruled during the 6th century. Archaeologists, who study old civilizations, gave him the nickname "Head on Earth."

Who Was Wil Ohl K'inich?

Wil Ohl K'inich was a powerful leader of the Maya people. He was part of a long line of rulers in Copán. His father, B'alam Nehn, was the king before him.

Ruling Copán

Wil Ohl K'inich became the "Ajaw," or king, of Copán in the year 544. He ruled for seven years, until 551. During his time, Copán was a very important city. It was a center for art, science, and politics in the Maya world. As Ajaw, Wil Ohl K'inich was responsible for his people. He made important decisions for the city.

Family and Successor

Wil Ohl K'inich was the son of B'alam Nehn, who was the seventh ruler of Copán. When Wil Ohl K'inich's reign ended, his son, Sak-Lu, took over as the next king. This shows how leadership was often passed down through families in the Maya civilization.

The Altar Q Connection

One of the most famous artworks from Copán is called Altar Q. This stone altar shows the portraits of 16 different rulers of Copán. Wil Ohl K'inich is one of the kings carved onto this important monument. It helps us remember who he was and his place in Copán's history.

End of His Reign

Wil Ohl K'inich's rule ended in 551. He passed away in Copán, the city he had governed. His legacy continued through his son, Sak-Lu, who became the next Ajaw.

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