Background on Toniná and its Significance
Toniná, located in Chiapas, Mexico, is one of the most significant Mayan ceremonial centers. Known in ancient times as Po or Popo, this site boasts complex architecture, vertical urban development, and a rich sculptural record filled with symbols. Its most notable feature is the tallest Maya pyramid in Mexico, standing 75 meters above its base and spanning 320 meters in length.
Historical Context and Closure
Toniná flourished during the 7th to 9th centuries, with written records dating back to 593, corresponding to the first identified calendric inscription. The archaeological zone has been closed to the public since September 2023.
Government Action and Decree
On December 18, a decree was published in the Diario Oficial de la Federación (DOF) announcing a public utility declaration for the recovery of over 9 hectares of private land within Toniná’s archaeological polygon. This action, authorized by Mexico’s President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo and Cultural Affairs Secretary Claudia Curiel de Icaza, aims to ensure public access to the heritage site located in Ocosingo.
Impact on Research, Conservation, and Local Communities
The decree, managed by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), will facilitate research, conservation, technical, and legal protection, as well as the dissemination of one of Mexico’s most prominent pre-Columbian settlements. Claudia Curiel de Icaza described this decision as “a historical act of justice and recognition of our memory and identity.”
Reopening and Social Responsibility
The upcoming reopening of Toniná will positively impact nearby communities by establishing a socially responsible approach to cultural heritage management through sustainable tourism projects. The decree also ensures that neighboring indigenous communities can continue their ceremonies and rituals, connecting them with the site for ancestral requests during rainy and harvest seasons.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is Toniná? Toniná is a significant Mayan ceremonial center located in Chiapas, Mexico. Known as Po or Popo in ancient times, it features complex architecture, vertical urban development, and a rich sculptural record with numerous symbols.
- Why was Toniná closed? The archaeological zone has been closed to the public since September 2023.
- What is the recent government action? A decree was published in the DOF, declaring public utility for recovering private land within Toniná’s archaeological polygon to ensure public access.
- What will the reopening of Toniná achieve? The reopening will facilitate research, conservation, and sustainable tourism projects while allowing indigenous communities to maintain their cultural practices connected to the site.
