PALENQUE, MEXICO.- Nearly three decades after the discovery of a richly adorned tomb in the heart of the Mayan city of Palenque, a new documentary seeks to bring the enigmatic figure known as the Red Queen back to life. "The Tomb of the Red Queen of Palenque," set to premiere online on March 14, 2025, offers a compelling look at one of Mexico's most significant archaeological finds.


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The documentary, produced by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), revisits the 1994 excavation of Temple XIII, where archaeologists unearthed a monolithic sarcophagus containing the remains of a woman covered in red pigment, along with a wealth of funerary offerings. Through interviews with the original excavation team, including custodians and researchers, the film reconstructs the painstaking process of discovery and the subsequent scientific analysis that revealed the woman's identity as Tz’ak-b’u Ajaw, the wife of the famed ruler K’inich Janaab’ Pakal.

"We wanted to capture not just the facts of the discovery, but the emotions and the human experience behind it," said Rafael Morales Orozco, the film's director. "It's about returning to that moment of awe."

The film, which premiered to an enthusiastic audience at the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City on March 7th, features stunning visuals, including historical photographs and immersive scenes that transport viewers into the burial chamber. The documentary also highlights the scientific work that has allowed researchers to understand the Red Queen's role in Mayan society.

"This discovery was a turning point in our understanding of Palenque," said Ricardo Arnoldo González Cruz, director of the Palenque Archaeological Project. "It revealed the complexities of Mayan funerary rituals and the importance of female figures in their ruling elite."

Forensic analysis of the Red Queen’s remains revealed she was around 50 years old and suffered from osteoporosis. The tomb also contained the remains of a child and another woman, suggesting ritual sacrifice. The exceptional artifacts found within, including a malachite mask and jade jewelry, have provided invaluable insights into Mayan artistry and beliefs.

The documentary's premiere drew a diverse audience, including many young people, demonstrating the enduring fascination with the Red Queen's story. Francisco Mendiola Galván, head of the INAH’s National Coordination of Archeology, emphasized the importance of sharing these discoveries with a wider audience.

"This film is not just for experts," he said. "It's for anyone who wants to connect with the rich history of Mexico."

"The Tomb of the Red Queen of Palenque" will be available on the INAH's "Relatando Historias" digital program on YouTube and Facebook, offering a chance for viewers worldwide to experience this remarkable chapter in Mexican archaeology.


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