Yaxchilán is an ancient Maya city located on the Usumacinta River, in what is now the state of Chiapas. Yaxchilán means “green stones” in Maya. The site is known for its large quantity of excellent sculptures. This was a large centre, important throughout the Classic era, and the dominant power of the Usumacinta area. It dominated such smaller sites as Bonampak, and was long allied with Piedras Negras and, at least for a time, with Tikal; it was a rival of Palenque, with which Yaxchilán warred in 654.

Getting there
Yaxchilán has long been difficult to reach, other than by river. Until recently, no roads existed within 150km. The only ways to get to the site were to travel a long way by boat, or else by small plane. Since the construction of the Border Highway by the Mexican Government in the early 1990's, it is possible for tourists to visit. To reach the site you just take an hour long boat ride down the Usumacinta River from Frontera Corozal.