On April 11, 1994, the remains of an ancient Mayan ritual and three hidden chambers were discovered in the heart of the Temple of Palenque, located inside the Lacandon Jungle of Chiapas. The expedition was led by archaeologist Arnoldo González Cruz , who was the first to see what appeared to be the remains of a Mayan aristocrat.
The find was also chaired by the archaeologist Fanny López Jiménez, who for several years had investigated the remains and epigraphic inscriptions that have provided information on the identity “Reina Roja” (Red Queen), the name given to the skeleton because its remains were covered by a layer of carmine-colored pigment belonging to cinnabar, a mineral used by the Mayans for the preservation of human remains.
According to the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), from the moment of the discovery, the researchers undertook the task of identifying the skeleton that was found in the Palenque burial chamber along with a luxurious trousseau built base of 700 pieces of jade. In the 1994 expedition, while the uprising of the Zapatista Army of National Liberation (EZLN) was taking place nearby, Arnoldo González and Fanny López determined that she was a queen and aristocrat of the Mayan city.
However, it wasn’t until 2018 that INAH announced that an interdisciplinary team managed to give the “Red Queen” an identity after several theories pointed to the fact that she was the mother of Pakal II, ruler of the ancient Mayan city or that it was the remains of his wife. Finally, that year it was confirmed that the remains belonged to the sovereign’s spouse, whose name was Ix Tz’akbu Ajaw, who gave birth to at least four male children who sought to turn Palenque into a regional power.

They also pointed out that the “Red Queen” lost her life on November 13, 672, and was buried with her most elegant ornaments and with a mask, made of malachite, obsidian and jade; that reproduced her features as accurately as possible.
According to Juan José Solórzano Marcial, director of the INAH Chiapas Center, the discovery was about “transdisciplinary knowledge that today allows us to approach the cosmogony and the imaginary of those who, before us, inhabited this space” and, from previous years, It was pointed out that the archaeological find allowed to open new perspectives in the knowledge about the funeral practices that were carried out by the ancient Mayans in the city of Palenque.
In addition, it also opened the discussion about the importance of the “Red Queen” within society, as well as the concepts and rites related to her death. The archaeologist Arnoldo González told the Discovery Channel that on one side of the sarcophagus where the skeleton of Ix Tz’akbu Ajaw rested, there were two corpses that fulfilled the function of granting a contribution of new, fresh blood for the Queen’s renewal”.
“The discovery of the Red Queen also corroborated the equal status among the Maya, without distinction of gender, where women also ruled, since it is known that in other territories such as Yaxchilán, in Chiapas, and Calakmul, in Campeche, there were women rulers, warriors, and doctors,” said Carlos Cal and Mayor Franco, director of the State Council for the Cultures and the Arts of Chiapas.
Trending News on PVDN
Puerto Vallarta News Brief with Felipe Alvarez for May 26, 2023 Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - The Puerto Vallarta News Brief covers the top trending stories of the week on Vallarta Daily News and is hosted by Felipe Alvarez.
Recent Protests Disrupt 40% of Puerto Vallarta’s Economy Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - Tourism, a critical sector of Puerto Vallarta's economy, has been severely affected by protests, suffering both reputational damage and direct harm to visitors. Alejandro Torres Magaña, General Manager of the Puerto Vallarta Hotel and Motel Association, cited missed flights and hotel delays as significant issues.
Two More Puerto Vallarta Beaches Are Awarded Blue Flags Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - In the upcoming 2023-2024 season, Puerto Vallarta is set to host six beaches awarded with the Blue Flag accreditation, an esteemed international recognition for high environmental and quality standards. The Blue Flag committee has reconfirmed the status for four previously certified beaches while conferring this prestigious title to two new beaches…
American Tourist In Critical Condition in Puerto Vallarta After Wave Breaks His Neck Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - "Experiencing your sibling in critical care, confessing your love to him, anticipating the worst... it's a nightmare no one should have to endure," shared Adam Griffis. Adam's younger brother, Evan, is struggling for survival in a medical facility located in Puerto Vallarta. The 30-year-old experienced a freak accident while swimming last…
Where are the Risk Areas in the Event of an Eruption from the Popocatépetl Volcano Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - In recent days, an eruption from the Popocatépetl volcano spewed incandescent materials, resulting in ashfall across various regions of Mexico City, the State of Mexico, and Puebla. In light of these events, the National Center for Disaster Prevention (Cenapred) has proactively implemented an operational plan, aimed at mitigating potential consequences of…
Mexico’s Vacation Rental Boom is in Full Swing and Puerto Vallarta Isn’t Left Out Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - The vacation rental industry in Mexico is currently thriving, marking an unparalleled period of success. From January to March 2023, INEGI recorded an impressive influx of nearly 18.8 million international visitors. This figure represents an increase of 3.87 million visitors or 25.9% when compared to the corresponding period in 2022. During…
Tactical Groups Are Added to the Streets and Beaches of Puerto Vallarta Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - As a component of the safety strategies initiated at the Citizen Security Police Station, members from the Tactical Operations Group (GOT) have been bolstering street patrols all over Puerto Vallarta. Following directives from Commissioner Rigoberto Flores Parra and Mayor Luis Alberto Michel Rodríguez, these officers ensure a visible and protective presence…
Volcanic Activity in Popocatépetl Disrupts Air Travel to Puerto Vallarta The volcanic activity of Popocatépetl has disrupted a minimum of 12 flights from the Mexico City International Airport (AICM) to Puerto Vallarta, as revealed by the Pacific Airport Group (GAP). The airport in the capital experienced closures that affected flight schedules, beginning Sunday, May 21st, until 1:00 p.m. on Monday, May 22nd. GAP detailed that…
Inhabitants of Santiago Xalitzintla Believe Popocatépetl Volcano is Erupting Because They Didn’t Celebrate His Birthday This Year Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - The volatile temperament of Popocatépetl volcano, characterized by explosive outbursts, fumaroles, ash falls, and powerful seismic activity, is attributed to a straightforward cause by the inhabitants of Santiago Xalitzintla, the community nearest to the massive crater of Puebla's giant. To these residents, the volcano isn't just a natural feature, it's a…
More Flights to Puerto Vallarta With High Demand, Plus New Route from LA Puerto Vallarta (PVDN) - The Director of the Public Trust for Tourism Promotion and Advertising, Luis Villaseñor Nolasco, has announced that Puerto Vallarta will expand its air travel links to both domestic and international locations. Additional flights to this popular beach destination are planned for the coming days. According to Villaseñor Nolasco, there has already…