Façade Motif of Temple 26

Situated at the top of the Hieroglyphic Stairway, Temple 26 had completely collapsed by the 19th century when the stairway was uncovered. Recent excavation and sculpture analysis have led to a better understanding of the themes displayed on this Late Classic building. It was commissioned after the loss of the 13th ruler, Waxaklajun Ubaah K'awiil who was taken in battle and sacrificed by neighboring Quirigua. The structure as a whole celebrates the important events in the dynastic history of Copan.