Comalcalco

About

Comalcalco was founded at least as early as the 6th century BC, and peaked around the 6th century AD. Because of its strategic location on the Mezcalapa River, Comalcalco was an important link in trade between the Yucatán and the Gulf Coast and the highlands of Chiapas and Guatemala. Located in Tabasco’s largest cacao production area, it was likely involved in growing and distributing this precious commodity. Unlike most Mayan cities, Comalcalco was built from bricks rather than blocks of limestone, which were held together by an oyster-based mortar. The bricks’ irregular sizes imply that they were hand-cut from lengths of clay, but what makes them truly unique is that many had designs painted, etched, or molded on their backs. After admiring the stupendous pyramids, palaces, temples, and tombs, the onsite museum is well-worth a visit to learn more about the site, and see the famous ornamented bricks up close.