At the western end of the Maya World settlers started a small hamlet around 100 BC at the northern end of the Chiapas highlands.

Palenque started as a small village of farmers and hunters and it is likely that more people came and settled the site around 150 AD, perhaps immigrants from the middle Usumacinta River.

Theirs would gradually become a small ceremonial center, and – in time – it would grow to be an important and very powerful city.

Just one century after it had been established, its citizens had built one of the most amazing, mysterious and admired ancient cities in the world, famous for its sophisticated sculptural style.

Archaeologists and National Geographic grantees George and David Stuart offer keen insights into the art and culture of the Mayans.